Ready Because You Are

GERMANY. EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE Manifesto for the 2021 Parliamentary Elections

Ready because you are. This campaign program for the election of the German Bundestag was established at the 46th conference of the federal delegates of BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN which was held digitally between June 11-13, 2021.

Editor: BÜNDNIS 90 / DIE GRÜNEN Platz vor dem Neuen Tor 1 10115 Berlin Phone: 030 28442-0 Fax: 030 28442-210 E-Mail: [email protected] Web: gruene.de

Responsible according to the press law: BÜNDNIS 90 / DIE GRÜNEN Annkathrin Schäfer Platz vor dem Neuen Tor 1 10115 Berlin

Layout and composition: Twentyfour Seven Creative Media Service GmbH, Berlin twentyfour-7.de

Cover design: neues tor eins Kommunikationsberatung GmbH, Berlin

Print: Frank Druck GmbH & Co. KG, Preetz www.eversfrank.com Manifesto for the 2021 Parliamentary Elections Ready because you are. Manifesto for the 2021 Parliamentary Elections

We will complete the European Economic and An Invitation 9 Monetary Union 85 Chapter 1: We will budget soundly, far-sightedly and fairly 87 Protecting the foundations of life 12 Chapter 3: Content We will create climate-friendly prosperity 14 Securing solidarity 92 Content We will create security of supply with renewables 21 We support children, young people and families 94 We will ensure sustainable mobility 29 We will ensure good work and fair pay 100 We will protect nature and the environment We will achieve gender equality 105 for a good life 39 We will secure the social safety net 107 We will support farmers, animals and nature 47 We will place greater value on health and healthcare 112 We will enable animals to have a better life 52 We will create affordable housing 125 Chapter 2: We will invest in towns and villages Doing business in the future 56 that people want to live in 130

We will promote entrepreneurship, competition and ideas 59 Chapter 4: Enabling education and research 136 We will provide a socio-ecological framework for the market 71 We support good education right from the start 139

We will drive digitalisation forward 73 We will bolster training and studying 145

We will fight for fair and sustainable trade 78 We will enable lifelong learning 147

We will make the financial markets We will improve the conditions for science 148 more stable and more sustainable 82

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Chapter 5: We will protect refugees 227 Living together 154 We will fight for a fair world economic order 232

We will make the state more effective and We will stand up for peace and security 234 more closely connected to citizens 156

Content Governing eye to eye with the future 244 Content We stand for diversity, recognition and equal rights 162

We will renew the democratic foundation 168

We will shape the diverse immigration society 175

We will put a strong focus on feminism, queer politics and gender equality 180

We will strengthen security and civil rights 185

We will guarantee the rule of law and strengthen consumer protection 192

We will promote culture, the arts and sport 196

We will continue to build Europe 202 Chapter 6: Working together internationally 207

We will drive forward the socio-ecological transformation 210

We will strengthen multilateral cooperation 213

We will foster good relationships in a multipolar world 215

We will defend human rights 223

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An invitation

Dear Voters,

A society decides who it wants to be through elections. This holds particularly true for these parliamentary elections on 26 September. It is the end of an era, and a new one can now begin. However, the future is not something that just happens to us. You, dear voters, can decide yourselves which direction it will take, through your vote. With this manifesto, we, BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN, present the content of our offer to you. We do this at a time of global emergency. Introduction The pandemic has affected us all right to the core. On the positive side, it showed us what kind of togetherness, innovation and resilience we humans can achieve. However, it also brutally exposed the weaknesses of our society, and did so in an already vulnerable world. The current global crises - first and foremost the climate crisis as a true crisis for humanity - affect all our lives and endanger freedom, safety and prosperity. Nevertheless, we have a choice: we can decide whether these crises overwhelm us or whether we rise above them. The experiences during the pandemic show that we can overcome crises with a con- certed effort. Through the solidarity with which our society gave the most vulnerable the strongest protection. Through the thoughtful- ness that so many people have been exhibiting. Through science and progress. People have been surpassing themselves on a daily basis during the pandemic - in hospitals, in homes for the elderly, in the supermarket, in laboratories, children, parents and teachers in distance learning, young people alone at home, self-employed people, who have demonstrated exceptional adaptability. Now is the time for politics to surpass itself. We can learn from mistakes. We have experienced how fragile the status quo is, how vulnerable an economy that is oriented purely towards profit is, but also how important basic rights are and how strong our society is. We have found out how limited national responses are to global issues, have seen how much uncertainty arises when we only go forward slowly and how necessary it is for politics to

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have a vision and to work for peace. The better precautions we take, decade of courageous advancement, of doing and succeeding. Power the more resilient we become, and the better we protect, the more is only on loan in a democracy. This loan obliges us to engage in clean freely we can live. politics - politics that places the well-being of citizens above that of As a society, we have the key for so much already in our hands. personal interest, that is accountable and places limits on itself. We We know how we can lead an industrial society safely into the age will act in this spirit. of climate neutrality. How we can speed up our exit from coal and We will bring many good traditions to bear in a new way, establish guarantee security of supply, how much more power can be generated many new things, remove many familiar things, but we will create from wind and solar and how nature protection can be bolstered. We security during the transition. After an era of short-termism in politics, know how to develop a socio-ecological market economy that brings we will bring in the staying power, the clear compass and the asser- together sustainable jobs, social protection and fair competition in tiveness to lead our country - in the heart of Europe, turned towards Germany and Europe, how to set clear rules for globalisation and tax the world - into a better future. Yes, to lead it. For the first time in the multinational corporations appropriately. We know how we can invest history of Germany, we BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN are fighting for the Introduction in strong healthcare and modern infrastructure, in good schools and political leadership in this country, in terms of content and people. Introduction public spaces and in a well-functioning people-oriented state. It is We are standing on a firm basis of values and are deeply rooted in possible to reduce inequality, to create equal living conditions in the society. We have a clear goal in sight for this decade: climate-friendly village, town and large city and to place children at the centre of prosperity. the picture. We can achieve full gender equality and create a diverse We have grown and acquired strength through governing in local immigration society. We are able and firmly determined to democrati- authorities, states and at federal level. We are going into this decade cally reinforce Europe as a community of shared values and to make with experience and expertise, with our hearts and with a vision, with it fairer and more able to act in systemic competition. This can be confidence and passion, open and adaptive. That is our offer and that achieved by international solidarity and if we shape our way of living is how we are campaigning for majorities for the next four years. We and doing business so that we do not exacerbate crises in other parts invite you to join us on this path. of the world. But words alone are not enough: we also have to do it. Now is the time for doing. Reactive politics has tried to prevent the worst over recent years. But what we need is to enable the best. To become a climate-neutral society within a short time is an epochal task with inspiring power. We want to achieve a recovery that goes beyond the purely economic. A recovery that includes the whole of societal life in its strengths and diversity: education and culture, work and digitalisation, science and innovation. This manifesto is a start. It proposes concrete, ambitious projects for political action in Federal Government for the coming four years. The tasks are major, and the obstacles likewise. However, recent years have shown that many people in society are far ahead of politics. So together, let us bring political work up to date. If you, dear voter, give us the mandate for this, and we are able to implement these projects step by step with you, together, we will achieve the foundations for a

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points and allow us to lead better, climate-friendly lives. We will the- Chapter 1: refore bring electricity, heat, transport and industry together, put an end to energy waste and thus enable the efficient dovetailing of these sectors. Instead of relying on coal, oil and natural gas, the energy Protecting the foundations of life system will be based on solar and wind power. Instead of clinging to fossil fuel combustion engines, we will create a new mobility with railways, cycle paths, footpaths and emission-free cars. Instead of oil The climate crisis is the existential issue of our time. As a result, cli- and natural gas, we will get our future heating from renewable energy. mate protection is not something for the future: climate protection This will all make the future quieter, cleaner, healthier, cheaper and needs to happen now. If we take a consistent approach at the start of more socially just. Fewer cars in the city means more space for peo- this century and bring about the socio-ecological transformation, we ple. Quieter streets and cleaner air will be particularly beneficial for can still prevent the climate catastrophe and help create a climate- those who cannot afford to live in a peaceful suburb. More options friendly world. Climate neutrality is a great opportunity to secure a for climate-friendly and environmentally-friendly transport, such as better quality of life, more social justice and climate-friendly prospe- dial-a-bus or car sharing schemes, will make commuting easier and rity. We just have to seize this opportunity enable us to live well in rural areas. Chapter 1 Chapter In recent years, we have already felt the effects of the climate With this great change, we will see the emergence of new areas 1 Chapter crisis, with hot summers, forest dieback, flooding and droughts. It is of business, new branches of industry and new jobs. Other sectors will having dramatic consequences here in Germany and across the world. change, and some will disappear. For many people, this is also a major One impact is on human health – and it is primarily those with the challenge, or even an imposition. We will only manage to achieve lowest incomes and especially the people in the global south who pay the socio-ecological transformation if we work together to minimise the price for the fact that the richest have the biggest carbon foot- losses and build bridges. Everyone who needs new opportunities or print. Also affected are farmers, whose livelihoods are being eroded training must get them. And it is our mission to ensure that the costs at an alarming rate. And it is also having an impact on social cohe- and burdens of this change are distributed fairly. Climate-friendly pro- sion in our society. All these consequences will multiply if we fail to sperity means combining our thinking about ecological and social change course now. The more decisive we are in our actions, the more issues and shaping the transition with care: for people in towns and freedoms and alternatives we will secure for current and future gene- cities and in the countryside. For tradespeople and for steel workers. rations. We will therefore move resolutely along the path to climate The loss of pristine nature and the environment is just as dramatic neutrality. as the climate crisis and represents one of the greatest threats to a This requires skill, courage and action. In a future government, we good and healthy life. If we want to protect our foundations of life, if will put the focus on the Paris Climate Agreement and ensure this we also want to curtail the second great ecological crisis of species informs the activities of all government ministries. We will put all our extinction, we need more than simply a change of course: we need efforts into initiating measures that keep us on the 1.5-degree pathway. to strike out in a completely new direction. We will make planetary Climate justice is a political issue. We see it as our role to create better boundaries the guiding principle of our policies and thus also contri- regulations, not better people. A clear political regulatory framework bute to greater environmental justice. In line with this principle, we would also move some of the burdens for people in their everyday lives will change the economic model, as there cannot be infinite growth and create freedom on a finite planet. We will set priorities. From now on, actions that Naturally, climate neutrality means change, but this change will protect people and animals, the climate and nature will be rewarded bring stability in the future. It will prevent us from passing tipping and promoted. Actions that have a destructive effect must carry the

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relevant costs and new solutions must be found as quickly as possi- power, we want to achieve 35 GW by 2035. In the area of solar energy, ble. By putting the protection of oceans and rivers, climate and soil, we want to increase the expansion from a starting point of 10 to 12 flora and fauna at the heart of our economic and legal system, we can GW up to 18 to 20 GW per year from the mid-2020s. By introducing successfully ensure the stability of ecosystems and our foundations a comprehensive tax reform, we want to ensure that sector coupling of life. And with that, we are laying the foundations for a good and is driven forward and electricity is available at reliable and competi- peaceful coexistence. tive prices. We will reconfigure the energy market so that renewable energy is no longer stifled. We will place the focus on sun and wind and enable industry, commerce and trade to contribute particularly We will create climate-friendly prosperity significantly to the integration of renewable energy via more flexible consumption. Peak generation times will be harnessed according to A better quality of life through climate neutrality the principle of “use instead of switch off” for storage facilities and the production of heat or green hydrogen. We will abolish double taxation The route towards climate neutrality offers huge opportunities for a and other stumbling blocks. We will secure critical infrastructure with better quality of life: cities with less congestion and fewer exhaust solar systems that are able to provide emergency power. Distribution fumes, with space to walk and cycle safely, to play and to live. Villages networks and consumers will be equipped with intelligent technology Chapter 1 Chapter that are finally connected to local public transport networks. Forests so they can react flexibly at times when plenty of renewable energy 1 Chapter where our children can still discover the beauty of nature. Healthy food, is being generated. produced in conditions that ensure animal welfare and environmental protection. Climate protection is so much more than a purely technolo- Energy efficiency – less is more gical issue: it is an essential requirement for a healthy life on a healthy plane. In a world of renewables, energy is a valuable resource that we must handle frugally and efficiently. This is even more relevant as long as The energy revolution: renewable heating, living and business we are burning coal, oil and natural gas. Our goal is well-insulated buildings, low-consumption cars - even those that run on electricity - Climate neutrality means turning our backs on fossil fuels. Not just efficient commercial and industrial processes and the transfer and use electricity, but also the petrol in our cars, kerosene in aircraft fuel of waste heat. We will set out clear regulatory requirements to achieve tanks, heavy fuel oil in ships, oil for heating and gas used in industry - this. Discounts on electricity prices for companies facing international these must all be converted to renewable energy. This is nothing less competition should be linked to the implementation of energy effi- than an energy revolution. First and foremost, this requires a massive ciency measures. After all, the less energy is needed, the faster we will expansion programme for renewables, which must be put into prac- create 100 percent renewable energy, reach our climate goals and save tice as soon as possible. The future of our industrial base and our costs on the energy infrastructure. Climate protection pays off. security of supply depend on this. The expansion will be limited by the power and capacity of industry and workers, but should not be A regulatory framework for a socio-ecological market economy constrained by the political framework conditions. We will therefore remove the obstacles to expansion in an ongoing process – in a way We must align our economy with climate neutrality and the planetary that is eco-friendly and that benefits our citizens. Our goal is an imme- boundaries and establish a circular economy. We want to combine the diate annual increase of at least 5 to 6 gigawatts (GW) of onshore economic recovery in the wake of the coronavirus crisis with ecologi- wind power, and of 7 to 8 GW from the mid-2020s. For offshore wind cal modernisation. This requires a new, socioecological restructuring

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of our market economy. We want to use ambitious guidelines in the New jobs with good conditions

form of limit values, CO2 reduction targets and product standards to give the German and European economy planning security and create An ambitious climate protection policy and the climate-neutral res- impetus for new investment. Fair prices will ensure that climate- tructuring of the economy represent the best opportunities to main- friendly action pays off. We want to enhance support for research and tain existing jobs in Germany and other countries and to create new innovation for climate-friendly economic activity. We will direct public ones. Socio-ecological modernisation strengthens the competitive- procurement consistently towards the most resource-saving and ness of domestic companies and can lead to a renaissance in indus- socially beneficial products and services. In this way, we will put our trial jobs. As we move towards climate neutrality, hundreds of thou- economy at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and protect our sands of new jobs will be created over the coming years – green jobs. natural foundations of life. They will emerge in manufacturing and construction, in new branches of industry and the circular economy, in the production of battery cells Green digitalisation and the hydrogen industry as well as in new service areas. Where possible, we want these new jobs to be based on a collective wage agree- Whether it is networked vehicles, efficient industry, precise distribu- ment or at least equal conditions. We will also take this into account tion of renewable energy or intelligent field irrigation: digital and when supporting new areas of businessn. Chapter 1 Chapter data-driven innovations will enable us to better reduce our energy 1 Chapter and resource consumption and to play a leading role in future techno- Security in transition with a short-time work allowance logies. We will therefore support and prioritise digital applications and for qualifications solutions that contribute towards saving resources or are more sustainable than analogue alternatives. It is generally important to avoid We see it as our obligation to support companies and their emp- rebound effects to support sufficiency. We will promote alternatives to loyees on the path to a climate-neutral economic system, especially critical raw materials such as rare-earth elements and advocate their in areas where job profiles change fundamentally or jobs are lost. The extraction in line with human rights principles. Tendering and proment ecological transformation needs a much better range of training and criteria must be adapted to ensure that the most socio-ecological, sus- qualification possibilities. To that end, we want to introduce the right tainable technologies are prioritised for use. During IT procurement to education and to use a training allowance to create social security by the federal government, factors such as manufacturer dependency, for workers undergoing qualification courses. With a new short-time subsequent procurement, technical openness, security, data protection, work allowance for qualifications, we will enable companies under- repair capability, sustainability and social criteria must be part of the going transformation to keep their employees and offer them long- evaluation process and certification schemes such as the Blue Angel term qualification opportunities. We will ensure close links between must become standard for IT products. We want to make all federal the qualification short-time work allowance and the social partner- government data centres sustainable, ensure they operate using rene- ship. In addition, we want to strengthen operational co-determination wable energy and deploy certified environmentally-friendly hardware. for decisions about the ecological transformation. Together, compa- At the same time, it is necessary to create incentives to reduce the nies, trade unions and works councils are best placed to know how to energy consumption of data centres, including converting to water shape the transformation cooling systems and supporting carbon-neutral data centres.

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Transformation funds for the regions the time to greenhouse gas neutrality requires disproportionately large reductions over the next few years. For that reason, we will launch an The ecological modernisation process is a huge challenge, especially emergency climate protection programme that will immediately trigger for many regions with a strong industrial heritage. In order to sup- effective measures in all sectors, remove existing barriers to expan- port the regions, and especially the small and medium-sized compa- sion, implement obvious saving measures and reinforce climate and nies based there, we want to set up regional transformation funds. The development partnerships as part of the global budget approach. We funding will be targeted towards companies that are unable to master will strengthen the currently still inadequate Climate Change Act in the necessary ecological structural changes by themselves, but who are terms generational and budgetary fairness, spell out annual and sec- firmly anchored in the region and want to remain there. It is import- tor-specific measures, reinforce the role of the Council of Experts on ant to involve regional players from academia, politics, business and Climate Change and increase the German climate target for reducing trade unions to develop a shared vision of where the region should aim greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 to at least 70 percent. It is our goal to be in the future, both socially and economically. At the same time, to achieve 100 percent renewable energy by 2035. This will enable we want to promote new formats, such as real-world laboratories and Germany to become climate-neutral in 20 years. experimentation spaces, in which civil society, academia, business and local authorities collaborate to research and find solutions for their Rewarding climate-friendly business Chapter 1 Chapter particular local challenges 1 Chapter More effective and socially just climate protection also has to make Launch of an emergency climate protection programme economic sense. The costs of the damage caused by the emission of

one ton of CO2 are currently only estimated at a very low level. Accor- The cornerstones of our policy are the Paris Climate Agreement and the ding to the latest calculations by the German Environment Agency, the

report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change on the 1.5 emission of one ton of CO2 causes damage worth around EUR 195. It degree limit, which explains that every tenth of a degree counts when is our goal to achieve an economy in which the most sustainable pro- it comes to preventing the planet from exceeding the relevant tipping ducts are also the cheapest. We want to make this change through a points in the climate system. It is therefore necessary to keep to the 1.5 clever mix of carbon pricing, incentives and support, as well as regu- degree pathway. Direct and substantial action in the next few years will latory law and the removal of environmentally harmful subsidies. Any be crucial in this respect. However, the expansion of renewable energy attempt to achieve the climate goals purely through carbon pricing is currently limping along, the phase-out of coal has come too late, and would inevitably lead to considerable social imbalances. Some could there is not much progress being made in the transport and building buy their way out of the situation, others would no longer be able to sector. According to the climate ruling of Germany‘s Federal Constitutio- participate. We therefore see carbon pricing as one tool of many – and nal Court, which also refers to the Advisory Council on the Environment, will introduce it in a way that is effective and socially just. In light of we need to focus our climate policy on the budgetary approach. The the new EU climate target for 2030, the EU Emissions Trading System Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that the global (ETS) needs to be reformed to finally achieve its incentive effect in carbon budget from the year 2018 for the 1.5 degree target is 420 giga- full. With a clear reduction in emissions certificates and the removal

tons of CO2 with a 67 percent probability of achieving this target. The of excess certificates from the market, we will achieve a carbon price Advisory Council has calculated a remaining national carbon budget of in the areas of electricity, industry and European aviation that ensures

6.6 gigatons of CO2 from 2020 onwards. If emissions were to continue that renewable energy sources are used instead of coal and kerosene, at their present level, the German carbon budget would be used up in while industry gets planning security and has the incentive to invest in less than nine years, and with a linear reduction, by 2035. Increasing decarbonisation and technology leadership. Under pressure from the

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climate movement and from us in BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN, a carbon approval processes. With a CO2 brake, we will make climate protection a price has also been introduced in Germany for transport and heating cross-sectoral task by reviewing laws for their climate impact, ensuring - although its incentive effect still needs to be improved in terms of compatibility with the national climate protection targets and the carbon social justice. We want to bring forward the increase in the carbon price budget, and securing the possible use of climate-friendly alternatives. to EUR 60 to 2023. After that, the carbon price should rise in such a way that it ensures, in combination with the support measures and regulatory stipulations, that we reach the new 2030 climate target. The reve- We will create security of supply nues from the national carbon price will be given back to the people as a per capita energy bonus. with renewables

Introducing an energy bonus Moving away from coal more quickly

To ensure that climate protection goes hand in hand with social jus- According to the will of the Great Coalition, coal-fired power stations in tice, we want to give the revenues from the national carbon price Germany will continue to harm the climate and our health until 2038. directly back to the people. To that end, we will strive, alongside a That is not compatible with the Paris climate goals or the 1.5-degree Chapter 1 Chapter reduction in the Renewable Energy Sources Act levy, to give an energy pathway. We are therefore determined to complete the exit from coal by 1 Chapter bonus to every citizen. The energy bonus will be a transparent way 2030. In this respect we will use all the options at our disposal – inclu- of giving all additional revenues back to the people and easing their ding at EU level. To avoid once more giving billions of taxpayer‘s money burden directly by issuing them with a per capita reimbursement. This to coal companies, we will set prices in line with the massive damage will reward climate-friendly behaviour and create social balance wit- done to the climate by coal-fired power generation. The best way to do hin the system. The bottom line is that low earners and families will this is via the EU emissions trading – with an incentivising carbon price. have their burden eased and people with high incomes will contri- If this cannot be achieved fast enough at European level, we will back a bute more. Recipients of transfer payments such as Unemployment national minimum carbon price in the ETS for industry and electricity of

Benefit II or social security benefits will also benefit, as the energy EUR 60 per ton of CO2. An accelerated exit from coal requires a massive bonus will not be offset against basic income. To support low-income expansion of renewable energy to ensure security of supply and a reor- commuters with the adjustment, for example, we will set up a climate ientation of the energy market structure towards solar and wind power. bonus fund, which will provide generous assistance for changes such At the same time, with health protection in mind, we want to tighten as a switch to buses, trains or a zero-emission car. the limits on the emission of harmful substances, especially mercury, from large combustion plants. Nobody should ever again have to leave CO2 brake for all laws their home due to open-cast mining. The state of North Rhine-West- phalia must finally give those people threatened with losing everything We want to systematically incorporate climate protection into our legal and eviction by the Garzweiler brown coal open-cast mine planning and system. We want to enshrine the stipulations of the Paris Climate Agree- legal security for the preservation and future of their villages. Our aim ment and the withdrawal from the nuclear energy programme in the Basic is to support this in the federal government by providing the appro- Law and strengthen ecology as a further basic principle of all government priate legal framework. We will fundamentally revise the mining laws action. We will give the state more opportunities to reward resource- and strengthen the rights of affected individuals as well as reinforcing

saving behaviour and put a price on the production of CO2 through environmental and nature protection. Natural wood is a hugely versatile intelligent tax legislation. We will introduce a climate change audit for raw material and too valuable to burn in large combustion plants.

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Making solar roofs the norm Securing Germany as an industrial location by expanding wind power We want to see an energy transition that everyone can be part of – tenants and home owners alike. Our roofs, façades and balconies We must also progress faster with wind power, for example by streng- can be turned into power stations – every surface with solar panels thening the expansion outside of tenders. With the expansion of wind on it helps to protect the climate. People can generate and use their energy, it is crucial to minimise any conflict with nature conservation own, decentralised electricity and heating energy. Our goal is for 1.5 and species protection, to protect residents and to speed up the appro- million new solar roofs in the next four years. We will therefore pro- val process, including by reducing bureaucratic hurdles and creating mote solar roofs and make them the norm. Starting with new builds, clear framework conditions. As a first step, we want to define renewa- public and commercial buildings and roof renovations, we want this ble energy as essential for the security of supply and use 2 percent of new standard to spread throughout the housing stock going forward. the total land area of the country for it. All federal states have a role Leasing, rental and contracting models can all play a supporting role to play here. We reject any obstructive planning rules. Excessive, fixed here. Special solutions will be devised for historic buildings. We will minimum distances from residential areas do not help to increase the simplify the tenant electricity supply rules and support tenant elec- level of acceptance. We will get local residents involved at an early tricity supply projects. We want to reduce the bureaucratic hurdles stage, designate clear priority and suitable areas for wind power, and Chapter 1 Chapter for the use of electricity from your own roof and strengthen owncon- create exclusion zones and targeted species protection programmes 1 Chapter sumption and direct marketing measures. to ensure an eco-friendly choice of location that also works well for local residents. At the same time, we will strengthen protection mea- Photovoltaics in rural areas sures for birds and bats. We will speed up the planning and approval process by making it simpler, employing more staff and standardising We want to see photovoltaics not only on roofs but also on the the evaluation criteria. We want to make repowering easier, so that ground, by improving the political and legal frameworks and making old wind farms can be quickly replaced in the same location by more construction easier. Instead of being built on valuable agricultural efficient ones. We want to make sure that installations that are over land, the expansion should ideally happen on paved sites, such as 20 years old can continue to operate. We want to support the building car parks, alongside motorways and railways and on brownfield or of wind farms in close proximity to industry and commerce in order post-mining land. We want to avoid the competition for land and will to produce electricity where it will be used and where it is easier to place the emphasis on multiple use for energy generation, biodiversity ensure residents are protected from noise pollution. We will continue and agriculture. Agri-photovoltaic systems, i.e. electricity production to expand our offshore parks and take advantage of the European alongside agricultural or horticultural use in the same area, can make Energy Union strategy to combine them with the solar parks of Medi- an important contribution to climate protection and ecology. If pro- terranean states plus the hydroelectric power of Scandinavia and the perly set up, ground-mounted systems can become valuable habitats. Alps. The more connected the network, the stronger it will be. A con- Farms should receive money for creating ecological benefits, thereby tinent is a good size for the energy transition. generating additional income. It is also important to have the option to sign direct, long-term electricity supply contracts. During the plan- Getting citizens involved in the energy transition ning process, local citizens must be informed and involved at an early stage. Local authorities must also benefit from the proceeds. We want as many people as possible to benefit from the energy transition. We therefore want to give special support to citizen projects for wind and solar parks and exploit to the full all opportunities for

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Citizen Energy Communities, as guaranteed by European law. We will Through market incentives and a comprehensive funding programme, give local authorities a mandatory share of the income from the rene- we will create the capacity for hydrogen production in Germany. Alt- wable energy facilities, so that rural areas in particular benefit from hough green hydrogen should be produced here as a priority, we the proceeds. We also want to promote and develop the tenant elec- will still have to import hydrogen to meet demand. Now is the time tricity supply scheme and make it less bureaucratic so that tenants to establish the infrastructure for hydrogen imports. Where these benefit more fully from the expansion of renewable energy. imports are concerned, we will set up and expand fair cooperations with countries with plenty of wind and sun, and support these Making our energy infrastructure climate-neutral export countries during the energy transition. The success of these cooperations relies heavily on getting the local population involved, Climate neutrality in less than 30 years means that one fossil fuel protecting human rights, focussing on the sustainable development infrastructure cannot simply be replaced by another fossil fuel infras- goals and introducing relevant mandatory standards. For hydrogen tructure. We will therefore introduce the start of our exit from fossil to contribute to climate neutrality, it must be produced from renewa- fuels: the infrastructure planning for electricity, heating and hydro- ble energy. The same applies to imported hydrogen. It is our goal to gen needs updating and must put climate neutrality at its core. New ensure that renewable energies are used efficiently and economically gas power stations or infrastructure that is needed to enable us to and electrolysers are used in a system-beneficial way. Hydrogen and Chapter 1 Chapter exit from coal should therefore only be allowed if they are absolutely synthetic fuels should not be part of a delaying tactic but instead can 1 Chapter essential at this point in time, and are already planned and built to make an active contribution to climate neutrality. The direct use of be hydrogen-ready. We will establish the legal basis for ensuring that electricity via batteries or heat pumps is generally far more efficient. new operating licences are time-limited and contain the change from It is therefore important to deploy hydrogen and synthetic fuels in natural gas to renewable sources of energy. It should not be forgot- the places where they are really needed, such as in industry, shipping ten that natural gas also damages the climate so its use should be and aviation. continually reduced in future. The emissions generated during the extraction and transport of natural gas are extremely damaging to Creating a market for green electricity the climate and we therefore want to reduce them as soon as possible. No new port terminals to receive liquefied natural gas should be The introduction of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) over 20 approved. New natural gas pipelines such as Nord Stream 2, which years ago marked the start of the energy transition in Germany. Solar are not geared up for green hydrogen, will over the decades cement and wind power have since become two of the cheapest sources of our dependence on resources that damage the climate and hinder the energy. Now, however, with renewables making up almost 50 percent energy transition. They must therefore be stopped. of our electricity, we need a market design that sets out the right framework conditions for a climate-neutral energy system: it must A green hydrogen strategy ensure the fast and cheap expansion of renewables, the economic operation of storage facilities, flexible producers and consumers and Hydrogen from renewable energy - so-called green hydrogen - is key an adequate network expansion. To that end, we will drive forward a to security of supply in a climate-neutral world. This is because hydro- root and branch reform of the energy legislation. We will support sec- gen is easy to store and, when produced using electricity from rene- tor coupling by strengthening the system-beneficial use of renewable wable sources, is also climate-friendly. Germany is well ahead when energy and taking regional differences into account. The first wind it comes to hydrogen production technology. We want to expand our farms and large solar parks have already dispensed with the need leadership role further and create the corresponding infrastructure. for EEG subsidies and the trend towards long-term supply contracts

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between producers of green energy and consumers supports this lishment of high building and renovation standards: KfW 40 for new development. Equally, in future it should be easier for end consumers builds, which roughly corresponds to the passive house standard, and to be able to buy electricity directly from green electricity producers. KfW 55 for existing buildings after renovation – with the exception In this way, we will develop the EEG from a funding into a protective of historic buildings. We will develop the KfW subsidy scheme further, tool for the expansion of renewables. The EEG levy will thus automa- including with regard to the use of sustainable building materials. To tically taper off in the long term. reconcile building culture and energy renovation, we want to create clear regulations that are appropriate for both goals. The renovation Speeding up grid expansion rate must be rapidly doubled and further increased. The use of serial renovation is one option here. Public authorities must serve as a role To bring about a successful energy transition, we need to expand the model with their buildings. For existing building stock, it must be the grid networks more quickly. They should enable energy to travel as case that a renovation plan is drawn up with every change of owner- quickly as possible from where it is produced to where it is needed. ship. When implementing the renovation plan, subsidy schemes can A clever mix of local production, storage and flexible consumers will provide additional support. Whenever the heating needs to be repla- reduce costs and increase the security of supply. The prerequisite for ced or extensive renovations are being made in existing buildings, as further grid expansion is that it happens in a system-beneficial way well as in new builds, only renewable heating sources should be used Chapter 1 Chapter and exploits all the possibilities for making optimal use of existing where possible. To that end, we will set up an investment programme 1 Chapter grid networks and supplementing these with intelligent systems and for two million highly efficient heat pumps by 2025. We also want to storage facilities. It is essential to involve local citizens at an early decarbonise district and local heating and link subsidies to climate- stage. This increases the quality of the planning and has been pro- neutral solutions.Energy efficiency can only be achieved if we move ven to help clear up potential grounds for complaint at the start of away from individual solutions and towards connected systems in the process rather than having to resolve them in court at the end. which heat is sourced and stored from various renewable sources It is also clear that renewables must take priority in the grid. Since such as waste heat, geothermal and solar thermal heat. We will also power transmission grids are natural monopolies and represent criti- integrate industry and commerce into the heating systems. We will cal infrastructure, we want to strengthen public influence over them. promote these connected, climate-neutral energy systems, especially To that end we want, where possible, to increase the state share in in urban areas. the four power transmission grid operators in Germany and turn them into a federal grid company in federal hands. We will also push for a Ensuring fairness in the heat transition reform of the network charges, which will strengthen transparency, ensure a fair distribution of the costs of the energy transition and The heat transition must go hand in hand with effective tenant protec- avoid any disadvantage to rural regions – especially in the north and tion and targeted funding. We want to use the so-called “third model” east – in relation to the funding of essential grid expansion costs. to distribute the costs of climate-friendly modernisations fairly between landlords, state and tenants so that they become affordable for Climate-friendly building refurbishment campaign all and economically viable for landlords. We want to impose strict limits on the modernisation levy so that costs cannot simply be pas- It is high time that all new builds and buildings, including the buil- sed on to tenants. With an addition to the housing benefit in the form ding materials, are designed to be climate-neutral throughout their of a climate housing allowance, we will also enable those on housing

entire lifecycle and that correspondingly comprehensive energy- benefit to live in climate-friendly homes. Charging for CO2 in the area based renovations are carried out. At the heart of this is the estab- of heating will create an incentive effect if paid for by those who also

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make the climate investments: the home owners. After all, they are the ones who can make changes to the state of the building and the We will ensure sustainable mobility heating supply, while at the same time profiting from seeing property values rise as a result of the modernisation measures. For local autho- Laying the foundations for the mobility transition rities, regional heat and energy planning as well as integrated district planning should be binding. Here we will use the Fair Heat action The path to climate neutrality means we need to fundamentally ret- programme to support the conversion to a climate-neutral heat sup- hink our mobility in the 21st century. This presents us with a great ply through tax breaks, free advice and targeted funding programmes. opportunity: a better quality of life in towns, cities and villages, mobility without destroying the climate, no more traffic jams or road traffic Completing the nuclear phase-out – successfully identifying fatalities, more freedom, participation and prosperity - all these are a final repository possible. We want to use a federal mobility law to lay a new foundation for our transport policy and legislation. Instead of being ruled by Nuclear power is not the right way to fight the climate crisis. We will com- a single means of transport - the car -, we want to put people and their plete the phasing out of nuclear energy in Germany. Although nuclear diverse needs first, especially the most vulnerable in our society: in energy is a high risk technology, we are still enriching uranium and manu- other words, children, young people, old people and people with disa- Chapter 1 Chapter facturing and exporting fuel rods. It is our goal to close down the nuclear bilities. Mobility policy will be consistently geared towards people‘s 1 Chapter power plants in Gronau and Lingen as soon as possible. The operation mobility needs, towards safety, climate protection, traffic avoidance, of the Garching research reactor with highly enriched uranium should fair use of space, noise reduction and air quality, social participation be shut down. The legacy of nuclear power generation is the search for and gender equality. Instead of preferring one single mode of trans- a final repository. We commit to the agreed path of finding a suitable port, as we have done for decades, we will provide a fair balance – location with the highest safety standards while ensuring the greatest with an effective railway, a modern local public transport system and possible transparency and the participation of the population. The dis- the best conditions for cyclists and pedestrians. The mobility tran- mantling of existing nuclear power plants must be done as soon and sition does not just need a better legal foundation, but also a more as quickly as possible under the strictest safety measures. Here, too, it is rapid implementation. To that end, we want to launch a comprehen- the case that we cannot burden future generations with these contami- sive education and research campaign. nated sites. We must therefore arrange for the interim and final storage of low-, medium- and, above all, high-level radioactive waste according Investment in strong railways to the highest safety standards. This requires an overall concept. Above all, safeguarding the waste against terrorist attacks is essential, as even An efficient, reliable railway is the backbone of a sustainable trans- interim storage is a long-term prospect. We will ensure that the storage port revolution. We want to further develop and implement the syn- and transport are strictly monitored. We also want to encourage the EU chronised timetable for Germany, with additional, more resilient and to start phasing out nuclear power. We will advocate for a reform of Eura- better coordinated rail options in urban and rural environments in tom, against any further privileges or new subsidies for nuclear power order to provide people with attractive mobility options that everyone and in favour of mandatory safety standards for all nuclear power stations can afford. To that end, we want to connect all German cities to regu- in Europe. In this way, old and unsafe reactors on Germany‘s borders can lar long-distance services, increase the frequency of regional trans- soon be taken offline. We want to make use of opportunities to object to port services and restore the focus on rail transport. Disused railway the new construction or operating extension of nuclear plants in Europe lines should be reinstated as soon as possible. We want to enhance and to opt out of the joint liability of states for nuclear accidents. these services through fast sprinter trains and night trains that con-

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nect all the major European cities to each other at affordable prices. distance routes through to Bike & Ride – and to strengthen regional We want to close gaps and remove bottlenecks in the domestic and cooperations. Together with the federal states, we want to set up a international rail network and at railway hubs. We will work quickly future and expansion campaign, create comprehensive connectivity to drive forward the expansion, new construction, electrification and through a mobility guarantee, increase investment in vehicles and the digitalisation of the network. It is our intention to free the federal local public transport network, and expand funding tools such as the infrastructure from the pressure of having to make a profit and from Local Authority Transport Financing Act and regionalisation funding chronic underfunding, and to create the relevant structures for this. to achieve these goals. We want to promote the use of zero-emission We want to invest an additional EUR 100 billion, distributed over the buses through rising quotas and attractive subsidies for local autho- years up to 2035, in the rail network and stations and, in cooperation rities and, where possible, to prioritise support for the expansion and with federal states, increase targeted regionalisation funds once more reinstatement of trams. Mobility should not depend on the size of so that the per capita investment matches European levels. In order your wallet: we want to support federal states, local authorities and to reliably finance this investment in the long term, we will set up an associations in offering attractive pricing through to ticketless local infrastructure fund, which will also receive revenue from HGV tolls. We public transport and tap into new sources of funding, such as a pay- want to significantly reduce route prices in order to provide greater as-you-go financing scheme. incentives for traffic to move onto the railways. We want to upgrade Chapter 1 Chapter stations to make them modern, accessible mobility hubs. The combi- Germany will become a cycling country 1 Chapter nation of rail with bicycle and bus transport will thus be significantly and will encourage pedestrians enhanced, and the options for taking bicycles on the train are also to be expanded. We will also increase noise protection on busy routes Bicycles offer huge potential for the mobility transition. The bicycle and we hope to achieve a fully accessible railway network within ten industry is already booming and creating jobs. In order to exploit this years. We will ensure that train travel is affordable for all. In particu- potential, we want to turn Germany into a cycling country. Cycling lar, we want to support young people at college or in apprentices- must be a safe and attractive option – everywhere. Bike lanes in cities, hips by providing them with climate-friendly and affordable mobility. commuter stretches or connections between villages as well as tou- In future, we want all volunteers to be able to travel free of charge rist cycling routes should be characterised by high quality and high on Deutsche Bahn, as soldiers do. We want to make Deutsche Bahn safety standards, such as a separate cycling infrastructure, as well as more transparent and efficient and focussed on its core business: rail good signage and helpful maps. Our vision is a complete cycling net- transport in Germany and neighbouring European countries. We will work throughout Germany with connections in the border regions. We encourage a greater shift from road and air transport onto the rail- will implement the recommendations of the National Cycling Plan, ways. With us, the rail sector will become an even more strongly gro- which are aimed at the federal government, as quickly as possible; wing job creator offering secure jobs. local authorities, federal states and companies will be offered comprehensive support in fulfilling their part of the task. The number of Expanding local public transport roads with cycle lanes and footpaths should be doubled by 2030. In order to achieve these goals, we want to significantly increase the per Buses and trains are there for everyone, offer affordable mobility and capita investment together with federal states and local authorities. reduce car traffic. We want to double passenger numbers on local We will strengthen federal funding and consulting services for the public transport by 2030. To that end, local public transport must be expansion and modernisation of the cycling infrastructure, create a made more attractive, more innovative and completely accessible. We powerful cycling skills centre and subsidise the procurement of work also want make local public transport better connected – from long- and cargo bicycles as well as S-pedelecs. We will reform road traffic

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legislation so that cyclists are better protected and have equal rights on their bikes or walk more frequently. Our goal is Vision Zero, i.e. no to space on the roads. Well-designed cycle paths should become the more deaths or serious injuries on the roads. To achieve greater safety norm on all federal traffic routes, following the example of the Net- on the roads, we want to reverse the rule versus exception ratio in herlands, both on existing roads and whenever new roads are built. built-up areas. A speed of 30 is the rule, yet speeds of 50 are recorded With a national pedestrian mobility strategy, we will create accessibi- in the local area. We want to introduce a safe speed of 130 km/h on lity, traffic safety and better conditions for pedestrians. motorways. Where there are special circumstances, such as in cities or other urban areas and their suburbs, the maximum speed will be 120 Introducing a mobile pass km/h. In order to prevent the many accidents suffered by cyclists and pedestrians in city centres, we want to promote mandatory technical Autonomous driving, networked mobility options, using not owning – solutions such as HGV turn assist systems, fully automated assist sys- digital advances will fundamentally change our everyday lives in the tems or warning systems. We will work towards a reduction in unne- next few years. We want the German mobility sector to be a pioneer cessary and deliberate noise, such as that emitted by excessively loud in new mobility solutions and to use digitalisation for the transport motorbikes and cars. transition in ways that are sustainable, inclusive and balanced. Real time information and a uniform ticketing system must become stan- Making car transport climate-neutral Chapter 1 Chapter dard in local public transport. To ensure that it is easy to get from 1 Chapter A to B everywhere, we want to use a mobile pass to simplify and Car transport must, in the next ten years, finally play a major role link the services offered by 120 transport companies and operators in in climate protection. Up to now, emissions have kept on rising in Germany and to integrate sharing and ride pooling services in a way this sector, but now this trend needs to change direction. To achieve that eliminates social and environmental dumping. The open data climate neutrality, car transport must be reduced and at the same principle and open interfaces must be taken into consideration in the time made zero-emission. We will ensure that, thanks to better trains, networking process. We want to make the switch to cycling, bus and buses, cycle lanes and footpaths and other supporting measures, by rail attractive to everyone and also support it financially. The mobile 2030 more than half of the routes in the environmental network will pass should also promote concessionary fairs and ticketless use. All have been completed. For many people, however, the car will continue mobility concepts must be accessible and enable participation even to be important. As part of the move towards enhancing the quality for those without their own digital device. For autonomous driving, of life for all, cars overall must be quieter, smaller, lighter and more we will improve the legal framework with a focus on public transport. digital, as well as being climate-neutral and easier to recycle. This will We want to strengthen passenger rights through automated compen- also include taking advantage of digitalisation, autonomous driving sation processes. and the strengthening of new mobility services to use cars more efficiently. In this way, we can promote greater mobility with less traffic. More safety through the mobility transition From 2030, therefore, only zero-emission cars will be newly licensed

for use; European CO2 fleet limits and an increasing national quota Everyone should be able to move around in their everyday lives wit- based on the 1.5 degree pathway are paving the way here. By 2030, hout fear and arrive safe and sound at their destination. Special atten- a relevant proportion of existing combustion engine vehicles already tion must be paid to the needs of children, older people and people have to be replaced by electric cars, and that proportion should rise with disabilities during transport planning. Updated traffic regula- by 2030 to at least 15 million vehicles. In this way we will ensure we tions, a safe design of the traffic infrastructure and a redistribution have clean air, can meet our climate and environment targets and that of space are all crucial elements in encouraging more people to get the automotive industry can plan its development work and invest-

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ments with confidence. This will secure future-proof jobs and new Traffic Routes as soon as possibly with a new federal network plan, business models. We want to convert subsidies for the purchase of which systematically focuses transport infrastructure planning on the zero-emission cars into a points system and open it up to light elect- requirements of the mobility transition and significantly reduces the ric vehicles. Climate-friendly cars will get cheaper, those that damage planned number of new and expanded motorways and federal high- the climate more expensive. We also want to encourage the conver- ways up to 2030. This requires a fundamental shift in the current stan- sion of existing combustion engine vehicles to zero-emission cars. dardised assessment process, calculation basis and criteria, taking into In addition, we will use regulation, mandatory consumer information account the actual climate and environmental costs, a basic review of and incentives to make cars in general lighter and more efficient. We alternatives that includes other modes of transport, an improvement will gradually end diesel subsidies and design company car taxation in the hitherto inadequate participation of citizens and associations, to be more socio-ecological. We will speed up the comprehensive and a move away from the so-called road financing cycle. In this way, expansion of a universal charging infrastructure, especially in rural we will protect our residential areas, forests and waters, peatland and areas, including fast charging stations. Charging must be fast, green, species diversity, and thus our own foundations of life. In the face of the cheap and convenient throughout Germany and Europe. climate crisis, we should not simply assume that just because things have always been planned a certain way, that‘s how things must now Modern transport infrastructure be done. We will also use the upcoming review of the current Plan for Chapter 1 Chapter Federal Traffic Routes to carry out climate, environmental and needs 1 Chapter For decades, the transport policy has been biased towards road buil- assessments on all sections not currently under construction as well ding and car transport. This wipes out all climate and sustainability as road building and expansion projects that are particularly environ- goals and instead leads to constant congestion issues. There is no mentally damaging, and thus greatly reduce them. Until this review future in this approach. Modern mobility for this century demands new has been concluded, no irreversible work should be undertaken on priorities. Germany needs to develop an infrastructure that takes the these projects. This is even more important given that the boom in 1.5-degree pathway into account and gives everyone access to future- new road construction ties up funds that are needed far more urgently proof and safe mobility. We will place the focus on the expansion of elsewhere. We will therefore reallocate much of the funding set aside pedestrian, cycle and rail routes, an equal distribution of spaces, the for road building and expansion projects and instead use it to reno- repurposing of existing infrastructure and an intelligent, accessible vate dilapidated infrastructure and expand the rail and cycle route network of environmentally-friendly modes of transport. We will also infrastructure. This will also include a fundamental evaluation of the support measures that avoid the build-up of traffic and the resulting financial risks of road building and the new motorway operator. Road pressures. These will include creating better conditions for working vehicles and trains should become quieter, in part through more active from home and a return to local supply in towns and city districts. noise protection for existing stock. In places where we cannot reduce Along traffic routes, we want to see more trees planted and maintained the noise directly at source, we will provide better noise protection. as part of a green infrastructure. The existing Plan for Federal Traffic Routes does not come close to fulfilling these demands. Despite the Rural mobility through a mobility guarantee climate and species crisis, and although Germany has one of the den- sest road networks in the world, the Plan for Federal Traffic Routes The mobility transition faces its greatest challenges in rural areas, contains several hundred more road building projects, which will cut where many people rely heavily on their cars. At the same time, this through our landscapes and natural habitats and endanger climate bias towards a car-centric system reduces the autonomy of children, protection. Germany has no shortage of roads, and certainly no shor- young people and non-car owners. We want to enable car-free and tage of motorways. We therefore want to replace the Plan for Federal accessible rural mobility. We want to work with the federal states

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to introduce a mobility guarantee with legally defined standards of designated junctions. We will also increase the possibilities of finan- connectivity across the network and at specific locations, develop a cing, promoting and actively shaping the mobility transition through wider range of public mobility services in rural areas, support local methods that have proved successful in Europe, such as congestion initiatives and expand cycle paths. In economically underdeveloped charges or local traffic levies. We will promote the spread of car sha- regions, regular, reliable and accessible connections to local public ring services, especially station-based models, as these will contribute transport services are required, for example via fast bus lines, and to to a reduction in the number of cars in our towns and cities. mobility services such as ride pooling and on-demand transport options. However, the car will still be indispensable for many people in Making air travel sustainable rural areas, particularly families. To address this, we will therefore also pursue the opportunities for switching to clean energy. The elec- Flying brings our world closer together, but is one of the most dama- tric car is a future-proof solution, particularly in tandem with solar ging means of travel in climate terms. After the pandemic, we do not panels on the roof, a storage battery in the cellar and a wall charging want to return to the unlimited growth of aviation, but instead to gear station in the garage. At the same time, we want to make car sharing it towards the goal of climate neutrality. From now on, we want to gra- available nationwide and promote the establishment of car sharing dually reduce the number of short-haul flights and make them unne- stations, including in locations that are less immediately profitable. cessary by 2030 by massively expanding the rail network – especially Chapter 1 Chapter direct and night services – and ensure fair competition between the 1 Chapter The mobility transition in towns and cities different means of transport that reflect their environmental costs. It is important to reduce the number of medium and long-haul flights, Nowhere is the mobility transition more fervently awaited than in for example by minimising public and private business travel through inner cities: accidents, congestion, exhaust fumes, noise, too few a switch to video conferencing. We want to make flying independent places for children to play and for people to come together – the of fossil fuels in a way that is sustainable, future-proof and long-term. car-centric urban environment is not only damaging to the climate, This can be achieved through strict European emissions trading, the it is also not a pleasant place to live. We want to make our towns promotion of modern aircraft technologies and an increase in the and cities better places to live and thus provide them with targeted admixture quotas with a clear trend towards gradually replacing fos- support for the mobility transition. We will make it easer to make sil fuel-based kerosene with electricity-based fuels made from rene- streets multi-purpose spaces, set out attractive pedestrian and cycle wables. By 2030, the quota should be at least 10 percent instead of 2 routes, promote traffic calming measures and car-free zones in city percent and should increase significantly in the following decade. We centres and other districts and create more green spaces by removing will therefore promote the expansion of production facilities. There paving. Temporary redesigns such as pop-up bike lanes should also be must be an end to environmentally harmful subsidies and ongoing made easier in order to test best practice solutions. We want to give financial support for airports. We will also advocate for the introduc- decision-making powers back to cities and local authorities when it tion of a European kerosene tax. Until this is implemented in the EU, comes to planning so that they can allocate their public spaces fairly, we will introduce a kerosene tax at national level for domestic flights for example through stringent management of car parking, whereby within Germany. Wage dumping through cheap flights must be stop- cars are no longer permitted to park anywhere, but instead only in ped. We reject any further expansion of the airport infrastructure. New specifically designated areas, or by improving the opportunities to developments in aviation, such as drones, must be measured against create bicycle parking spaces and turn car parking spaces into bicy- whether or not they can make a contribution to a sustainable mobi- cle parking spaces. We also want to use appropriate fines to bring an lity transition. The reduction in aircraft noise requires fewer aircraft, a end to illegal parking on cycle lanes and pedestrian paths and near requirement for active soundproofing for quieter aircraft, an effective

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ban on night flights, the equal status of military and civilian airports climate-neutral through mandatory emission reduction targets and and an amendment to the legal basis with stricter limits. For health by including it in EU emissions trading. We will create the political protection, we also want to establish limits for ultrafine particles. framework conditions for ensuring that shipping moves away from crude oil with its poisonous emissions as soon as possible and that Sustainable freight transport instead, it uses shore-side electricity, low-emission terminals, alternative ship drive systems and climate-neutral fuels as well as offe- Millions of tons of freight are transported through Germany every day, ring fair working conditions for all those involved in sea transport. mostly in the form of endless lorry convoys on our roads. In a climate- We will therefore push for higher standards worldwide. Modernised neutral Germany, freight traffic must also be sustainable, zero-emis- inland waterway vessels must in future make an important contribu- sions and less noisy. To reduce lorry traffic, we want to relocate the tion to climate-neutral freight transport. We see ourselves as having freight traffic from the roads to the railways. To that end we will make a responsibility for ensuring the good ecological condition of all our use of the combination of road, rail and waterways and reconnect waterways. Dilapidated waterways must be renovated in an environ- industry and commerce to the railway network across the country. mentally friendly way, there should be a moratorium on river deepe- We will promote investment in modern freight transport technology, ning measures and a fundamental review as part of the new federal intermodal freight transport centres and transshipment terminals for network plan to reflect the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. Chapter 1 Chapter combined freight transport. We will also focus on regional business 1 Chapter cycles and the opportunities created by digitalisation and networking for the organisation of logistics. We want to regulate the boom in We will protect nature and the environment lorry traffic through a CO2-oriented charge, so that the resulting costs

are borne by the main polluters. Together with ambitious CO2 fleet for a good life limits and quotas, the promotion of climate-friendly drive systems and the rapid expansion of the corresponding infrastructure, we also Preventing species extinction aim to make lorries local emission free. Greater safety in the HGV sector requires better enforcement of working time regulations. The wor- Biological diversity safeguards life on earth. Ecological guiding prin- king conditions of lorry drivers must also be considerably improved. ciples must therefore define our actions – as a “barometer of life”. In To that end we will recruit more staff to the Federal Office for Goods order to overcome the biodiversity crisis and put an end to mass spe- Transport and give them more powers. In urban logistics, we want to cies extinction, above all we need to change the way we use land. As promote the use of cargo bikes and cargo trams as well as new dis- with climate protection, every day counts for nature protection. We tribution concepts such as city hubs and freight carriage for the last therefore want to establish an emergency programme for species pro- mile through licensed carriers. tection, which involves a clear reduction in the use of pesticides and a ban on the use of particularly harmful environmental toxins such Making shipping environmentally and climate-friendly as glyphosate. We want to stop the sale of naturally valuable federal land and the drainage of peatlands, and make former military land For an export-oriented country like Germany, having an internatio- available for nature conservation. To ensure better connections bet- nally competitive maritime economy is crucially important. We are ween protected areas, we want to create nature conservation corridors. committed to the development of a joint port concept by the federal Together with the federal states, we will improve nature conservation government and individual states, which is based on cooperation rat- in the Natura 2000 areas, increase the size of national parks and other her than competition between locations. We want to make shipping protected areas where possible or create new ones and strengthen the

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country‘s natural heritage. To ensure that nature protection finally gets ons, we will support hunting methods that are compatible with forest adequate funding, we will chart a new course: 10 percent of the money protection, nature protection and animal welfare. The management of from the Energy and Climate Fund should be set aside for climate all public open spaces should be linked to ecological criteria – certi- protection through nature conservation measures. We will expand fied in forestry according to FSC or Naturland standards and in agri- the Wilderness Fund so that at least 2 percent of the land area beco- culture according to organic farming standards. As a first step, we want mes genuine wilderness once more, where plants and animals can to turn at least 5 percent of our forests over to nature. In this way we live undisturbed. We want to achieve a situation where the effects on will create the primary forests of the future. Further years of drought the climate, nature and the environment are rigorously assessed and increase the risk of forest fires. Together with local authorities and taken into consideration before planning any infrastructure project. A federal states, we want to devise a nationwide fire prevention and diverse cultivated landscape is also of key importance for the protec- control strategy. tion of our natural environment. We therefore want to provide better protection for - and create new - valuable elements of the landscape Protecting biological diversity on land and in the ocean such as species-rich wildflower meadows, meadow orchards, vineyard terraces, avenues, individual trees and wildflower strips along roads Species decline and the destruction of natural habitats are also and on municipal land. We will drastically reduce land consumption advancing globally. We will campaign for an ambitious United Nati- Chapter 1 Chapter of natural and agriculture land – initially to less than 30 hectares per ons agreement on the preservation of biological diversity and pledge 1 Chapter day well before 2030. To achieve this, we will work together with the to implement this in Germany. According to the European Union‘s Bio- federal states and local authorities to implement measures that limit diversity Strategy, at least 30 percent of the land area and 30 percent construction on current farmland and natural areas. of the oceans should be given effective protection. We want to embed the UN Sustainable Development Goals across the board as new gui- Saving our forests ding principles and make them part of a coherent policy. In the oceans, we will pursue a joint international marine strategy. We will com- Our forests are under severe threat from the climate crisis – due to mit to tightening marine protection by means of binding agreements, heatwaves, droughts and storms. We are currently experiencing a level closing and focusing attention on enforcement shortcomings and of forest dieback that is causing far greater damage than that caused regulatory loopholes so that pollution that has been legal up to now, by acid rain in the 1980s. Unspoilt, species-rich and climate-stable such as tank cleaning at sea, is banned and overexploitation is pre- forest ecosystems are more resilient than monocultures. They keep the vented. We will support programmes to stop global deforestation and water cycle in balance and the soil fertile, act as a carbon sink, purify to protect or to reintroduce or repopulate species that are particularly the air, provide habitats for numerous endangered species of animals, at risk. Land users whose livelihoods are threatened by protective plants and fungi, produce raw materials and serve as places for health measures must receive compensation. We want to support targeted and relaxation. We will promote the development of healthy forests species conservation programmes run by zoos and scientific institu- that absorb more carbon than they release or is extracted from them. tes while at the same time improving the conditions in which the We want to establish legal minimum standards to ensure that forests animals are kept. Together with the federal states, we want to improve are managed in the most natural way possible, alterations, new plan- the protection and development of habitats for which we in Germany ting and reforestation are carried out according to green management bear international responsibility, such as the Wadden Sea and ancient specifications and forest owners are supported with expert support beech forests. When it comes to interventions in nature, unacceptable and advice. This will also help to create economic added value. Wor- risks, such as the manipulation or eradication of entire populations or king hand in hand with nature protection and forest owner associati- species through genetic modification – so-called gene drives – must

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be banned. There is a need for a comprehensive biomass strategy so and to improve our water treatment plants. A levy on polluters and that the production and import of biomass for energy production or a reform of the waste water levy should lead to a fair distribution animal feed does not lead to the destruction of species diversity. of the costs of treating waste water and drinking water. We want to make manufacturers more responsible for their products. By measu- Protecting and renaturing rivers and peatland res such as improving the authorisation and disposal guidelines for medicines, we will thus reduce the build-up of resistance and other The renaturing of rivers, wetlands and forests and the rewetting of dangers posed by pharmaceutical residues in the water. Particularly peatland protects not only rare habitats and biological diversity, but dangerous and poorly degradable pollutants should no longer be also the climate. For that reason, we will launch a renaturing cam- allowed to enter the water cycle. We will finally implement the EU paign. Pristine streams and the last free-flowing rivers such as the water law consistently and significantly reduce the amount of hor- Elbe must be preserved and we reject any expansion of the Oder or mone-altering substances and microplastics entering the water. It is the tidal Elbe. Measures that have a negative impact on the ecologi- important to safeguard the priority of drinking water provision over cal status of our watercourses will not be permitted. We will imple- commercial use. We also want to promote the reuse of waste water ment these provisions from European law. Rivers with extensive wet- and the storage of rainwater and create incentives to save water. We lands and floodplains also offer the best protection against flooding will also apply the precautionary approach as a guiding principle in Chapter 1 Chapter and keep the water in the landscape. We will therefore redefine the water conservation, and therefore want to change mining legislation 1 Chapter remit of the Federal Waterways Administration in line with ecolo- to exclude fracking and future projects for extracting crude oil and gical criteria. We want to strengthen specific programmes for wild natural gas. streams, pristine rivers, lakes, wetlands and marshland, such as the “Blaues Band”, and work together with federal states to finally ensure Protecting the oceans, stemming the tide of plastic waste the consistent implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive. Peatland protection is climate protection. We therefore want to see Our oceans are in a catastrophic state – and this looks likely to get an end to peat usage and aim to rewet our peatlands as quickly and worse still as a result of further acidification, overfertilisation, over- comprehensively as possible. To this end, we will set up a compre- fishing, pollution and plastic waste. In order to curb the deluge of hensive and effective peatland renaturing programme, in conjunction plastic waste, we want to initiate an internationally binding agree- with the federal states. In order to save still intact peatland from ment to stop the flow of plastic into our oceans and establish an peat extraction, over-fertilisation and drainage, we will put it under emergency programme with ambitious waste prevention targets. We strict conservation measures. For exploited peatland areas, we want want to promote technology that enables the recovery of old muni- to create economic prospects for sustainable wetland agriculture and tions in the North and Baltic Seas and the environmentally friendly strengthen extensive grazing and paludiculture. removal of waste from the oceans. Oil rigs in the North Sea release toxic substances as a result of accidents, oily drilling mud and waste Clean water is life and gas flares. We are committed to putting an end to the extraction of fossil fuels. In the German Exclusive Economic Zone, we want to Water is our most important food. Fertilisers, pesticides, detergents put an immediate stop to new oil and gas wells and cease production and pharmaceutical residues do not belong in our water. To protect completely by 2025. At a European and international level, we are cal- our groundwater, lakes, rivers and seas, we therefore want to lay ling for an end to oil and gas production in the entire North and Baltic down clear, legal guidelines, such as regulating the amount of land Sea regions. We also want to advance our withdrawal from gravel used for livestock farming and the use of pesticides and fertilisers, and sand harvesting in protected areas and at the same time prevent

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overexploitation in countries in the Global South by imposing import sit on mobile phones, tablets and energy-intensive batteries. We will standards. In order to end overfishing, stabilise fish stocks and give turn the existing licence fee for plastic recycling into a resource levy. fishing communities new prospects for the future, we want to adjust With regard to the arrangements for refuse collection, we want to catch quotas and fishing agreements, extend the closed seasons and strengthen the position of local authorities. The packaging legislation convert the fishing industry to fishing methods that are good for the will become recyclable material legislation, which gives priority to all environment and the climate while also protecting fish species. This ecologically beneficial reusable products and promotes waste pre- will include the earliest possible withdrawal from environmentally vention and high-quality recycling. This means that the types of plas- and climate-damaging bottom trawling and the eco-friendly regu- tics and composites must be reduced and made toxin-free. Organic lation of bottom set gill nets. We want to orient fishing subsidies recyclable material should not be incinerated but instead recovered. towards the ecological use of the oceans. We will support regional Plastic waste should no longer be exported if it will not be recycled fishing companies in making these changes and in building up alter- to a high standard. It will then become more economically viable to natives through environmentally friendly tourism services. An import- return materials into circulation than to throw them away. The circu- ant step towards providing adequate rewards for green fishing and lar economy will become the new normal. aquaculture is to introduce mandatory labelling that is fully transparent for the consumer. Vibrant oceans require the implementation of Toxin-free products for everyday use Chapter 1 Chapter the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive, a moratorium on deep 1 Chapter sea mining and the designation of extensive protected marine areas Plastic pollution and residual contaminants are now even being free of any exploitation. found in the bodies of children and young people. The World Health Organisation sees endocrine-disrupting chemicals as a global threat Putting an end to waste to health. We want to ban toxic chemicals that can cause illnesses such as cancer, diabetes or allergies and infertility from all everyday Plastic waste continues to increase and the percentage of reusable products by improving the EU chemicals laws and enforcing them drinks packaging has been falling for years. Single-use cups are used quickly and consistently. The use of microplastics, which are already for just a few minutes before being thrown away. Disused mobile pho- found throughout our environment, must be minimised as a matter of nes and tablets collect dust in drawers, even though they could be urgency. Microplastics have no place in cosmetics and care products. reused or recycled. Our goal is zero waste. No more waste should be We will focus particular attention on toys, children‘s care products generated and we need to stop wasting resources. This will only be and other everyday items such as textiles, furniture and electronics. possible if manufacturers and those creating the waste assume more Germany should follow the example set by France and prohibit pro- responsibility, and if the concept of the circular economy is taken ven toxic chemicals, such as bisphenol A in cookware and food packa- fully into account in the design, manufacture, use and disposal of pro- ging or perfluorinated and polyfluorinated hydrocarbons in paper and ducts. Unwanted advertising, often wrapped in plastic film, should not cardboard. We want to give consumers better protection by working appear in our mailboxes. We will simplify the complicated deposit- with the federal states to monitor imported goods more carefully for based return system. Every bottle should fit into any deposit return toxins, improve product labelling and make it easier to recall pro- machine, and we will make reusable takeaway cups standard by 2025. ducts. It is our goal to enable people to live healthy lives in a healthy We will promote reusable packaging for transport, online trade, retail environment. and food packaging. We will call for an EU-wide deposit-based return system. To ensure that valuable resources from old electronic items make their way back into circulation, we will start by creating a depo-

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Clean air to breathe to use improvements in building law and urban development funding to help urban and rural areas to implement all this on a local basis as We all need clean air to breathe. But exhaust fumes from traffic, coal- quickly as possible. Our cities are also becoming increasingly import- fired power stations and old oil heating systems make us ill. Even ant habitats for animals and plants. We therefore want to expand worse: according to the calculations by the European Environment nature in our cities. We want to protect and ecologically enhance the Agency, 70,000 people die prematurely each year in Germany alone green spaces that already exist, and win over gardeners and allotment from illnesses caused by air pollution. Ecological modernisation offers holders as our allies in this task. We will stem light pollution, which huge opportunities for improving air quality. Electric cars, solar and harms people, animals and plants and plays a significant role in the wind energy protect our air. We want to speed up this development disappearance of insects and birds. and put the World Health Organisation recommended thresholds for air pollutants into practice as quickly as possible. We will also improve air quality in our cities by creating more green spaces there. In order We will support farmers, animals and nature to achieve these goals swiftly, we will look at all sources of emissions, such as traffic, industry and agriculture, and in this context allow the Making agriculture fit for the future decision about whether and how in detail fireworks should be regu- Chapter 1 Chapter lated to be made where it matters - on the ground locally. We want to reconcile the various interests of climate, environmental, 1 Chapter animal and water protection and agricultural production. Making agri- Climate adaptation and more nature in towns and cities culture fit for the future – we see this as our task for the years ahead. This is only possible if we work with nature and with an understan- The climate crisis is increasingly changing the framework conditions ding of nature that is based on circular principles and is committed to of our coexistence. The planet has already heated up by 1.2 degrees. the conservation of resources. It means fertile soil that stores carbon, The consequences of this change have also been felt in our country clean water and intact ecosystems, but also fair livelihoods for farmers for a long time, with hot summers, floods and storms, and often fall and a good and healthy diet for all. We can and will only achieve this hardest on those who are living in the most difficult circumstances. in collaboration with citizens and farmers. We want to support small While we will continue to fight for every tenth of a degree less glo- businesses in particular through the necessary transformation and find bal warming, we must also adapt to these changes. In rural areas, we pragmatic solutions for them. Our model is an evolving green agricul- need to provide support in particular to help agriculture and forestry, ture based around the principles of animal welfare, no genetic modifi- tourism and the fishing industry adapt in order to reduce the damage cation and freedom from synthetic chemical pesticides. To that end, we caused by drought, crop failures and forest dieback. We want to enable want to provide extensive support for organic farming and create the our cities to cope better with heatwaves and heavy rainfall – through conditions that enable more and more farmers and food producers to heat action plans and urban redevelopment on a large and small switch to organic in future. The target is for 30 percent organic farming scale: more urban greenery, depaving, fresh air corridors, building by 2030. We will considerably expand agricultural research into the greening, areas of water and public drinking fountains. They should be greening of agriculture. We will strengthen varied crop rotation and turned into sponge cities that are able to absorb more water, store it resilient cultivation methods such as agroforestry as well as encou- and use it for cooling purposes in the summer. This will also increase raging the use of robust plant varieties and animal breeds. We will the quality of life for all those who cannot afford their own balcony substantially reduce surplus nitrogen. Digital applications can in some or garden: roof gardens create natural air conditioning for apartments cases also help make agriculture more environmentally and climate- and offices, parks and woodland provide shade and fresh air. We want friendly but they must also be open to and affordable for smaller bus-

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inesses – for example, via sharing concepts. Monocultures, pesticides phosate, which is still widely used today. In order to reduce the overall and synthetic chemical fertilisers also lead to considerable damage to use of pesticides, we will introduce a pesticide tax. For effective spe- health and the environment in the Global South, while small farmers cies protection and to protect our drinking water, we want to prohibit continue to be driven into dependency by European export dumping, the application of pesticides in nature conservation areas and drin- patented seeds and land grabs. The right to food must be guaranteed, king water protection areas and introduce comprehensive pesticide and we want to strengthen small rural farming structures. To that end, monitoring. Affected farmers will be provided with financial support we will use our agricultural and development policy to support a global during the implementation. We will also end the export of pesticides socio-ecological agricultural transition. that are not permitted or are banned in Germany or the EU due to environmental or health risks. We want to improve the approval pro- Public money for public services cess for pesticides by strengthening transparency and independence. For ecological crop protection, we will work in cooperation with the The EU‘s Common Agricultural Policy should become an instrument federal states to set up a comprehensive, combined research, imple- for a socioecological agricultural policy and not – as hitherto - for mentation and advisory programme for non-synthetic chemical crop the industrialisation of agriculture. This must be the starting point protection. for a social contract between farmers, consumers and politicians for Chapter 1 Chapter climate protection and nature conservation. We want to see a reform Diverse seeds without patents 1 Chapter that enables the billions in public money to be used in future for public services such as climate, environmental and animal protection, Diverse, fair and sustainable agriculture begins with its seeds. In light thereby strengthening regional agriculture. To drive forward the sus- of the climate and biodiversity crisis, we want to drive forward the tainable conversion of agriculture together with farmers, it is import- cultivation of robust varieties and research into organic seeds, as well ant to use the national scope for the forthcoming funding period in as strengthening research into alternative approaches based on tradi- the best possible way to achieve these goals. We want the system tional and organic breeding techniques. As with any technology, when of direct payments to be gradually replaced by a public good bonus, dealing with old and new genetic engineering techniques, it is neces- which rewards social contributions. We are committed to innovative sary on the one hand to safeguard the freedom of research, and on instruments of agri-environmental support, which can be used to the other hand to exclude any risk to people and the environment in combine climate protection and nature conservation with agro-eco- their application. The focus is not on the technology but rather on its logical goals. By 2028, we want to have earmarked at least half the opportunities, risks and consequences. We will therefore adhere to a money for ecological purposes. strict approval process and to the precautionary European approach. This requires risk assessments based on a comprehensive scientific Reducing pesticides basis and regulations that exclude any uncontrolled distribution, as well as mandatory labelling, GMO-free production and the protection There are many reasons for significantly driving down the use of pesti- of consumer choice. This also involves strengthening research into cides in agriculture. Protecting human health is one reason. Above all, the risks and evidence gathering. We want to adjust patent law so using fewer pesticides is the most important lever to stop the decline that there are no longer any patents on living things and their genetic in species diversity. We want to make our departure from dependence make-up. on pesticides in agriculture as quick and feasible as possible: through a systematic pesticide reduction strategy and an immediate ban on particularly environmentally toxic substances and the pesticide gly-

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Fair income and working conditions for farmers giving a clear definition of regional products. Public funds and targeted advice on how to deal with obligations and labelling rules should Farmers must be able to live from their work. We therefore want to primarily benefit small and medium-sized agricultural businesses and take action against price dumping, the sale of foods below the pro- craft enterprises. We will support research and advice on regional duction price and concentration in the food retail sector by making marketing and on innovative and participative approaches such as use of the options available through competition and cartel law as producer associations, agricultural cooperatives or nutritional advice. well as the EU directive against unfair trading practices. We want to support young farmers and new entrants and take measures against Promoting healthy eating – saving food land speculation and the selling off of rural land. As part of this, land belonging to the federally owned land company “Bodenverwertungs- Healthy and ecologically valuable food should be easily accessible to und -verwaltungs GmbH” will no longer be privatised but instead all people in Germany. Access to a healthy diet should not depend on will preferably be leased to local farming operations and start-ups how much money you have. We want to focus on reducing diet-related with the aim of cultivating the land in a climate-friendly and nature- illnesses. We will therefore make a change of course and will make a friendly way. We will regulate share deals for agricultural operations number of key adjustments – a good and healthy diet must be within to prevent land from being sold off to non-agricultural investors. Fair easier reach for all. We will support nurseries, schools, hospitals, care Chapter 1 Chapter conditions must dominate in the food production and processing sec- homes, canteens and cafeterias to offer healthier, more regional and 1 Chapter tors too. Better health and safety at work conditions for those emp- ecologically produced food; wholesome vegetarian and vegan food loyed in agriculture and the meat industry are necessary, as are more should also be part of the daily menu. All too often, healthy eating falls rights for workers, collectively agreed wages and strong trade unions. down due to an insufficient choice of products and a lack of transpa- When it comes to seasonal work, there is too much precarious emp- rency. In order to change this, we will put the onus on the food industry. loyment with no social security protection. In this area, hard physical We need mandatory reduction strategies against too much sugar, salt, work is often rewarded by meagre wages and poor accommodation. fat and additives in ready meals and economic incentives to make We want to put an end to these social injustices. healthier products. For food advertising aimed at children, we want clear regulations based on the criteria of the World Health Organisa- Strengthening regional production, processing and marketing tion. An environmentally friendly diet should form part of the curriculum in all relevant areas of education. The nutrition policy must also he desire to buy more regional and artisan food - in bakeries, butchers be oriented towards the goals set out in the Paris Agreement. Climate and farm shops - is on the rise. At the same time, the coronovirus crisis protection includes ensuring that we as a society produce and consu- has brought the importance of regionally operating supply chains to mer fewer animal products in future. We want to make vegetarian and the fore. We want to strengthen regional production, processing and vegan food more attractive and accessible to everyone. We intend to marketing and thus counter the demise of small businesses in recent promote the market launch of plant-based alternatives and meat subs- years. This will include ensuring a level playing field compared to titute products and offer better tax conditions for these. For example, imported foods. In public institutions, we want to use more regio- VAT should be reduced on plant-based milk alternatives. We also want nal and ecological products, including goods from farms in the pro- to reduce the tax on fair trade coffee. Overall, we want to take up the cess of converting to organic production – in this way we can create call by the EU Commission to take environmental costs into account demand and ensure fair prices. We support regional seals of appro- when setting food taxation levels by carrying out an ecological tax val and direct marketing for businesses through local shopping apps reform, so that the price of plant-based and animal foods is both eco- and regional advertising, and will provide protection from fraud by logically and socially just. We will take determined action to combat

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food waste. We want to introduce mandatory waste reduction targets regulations in this respect and work at EU level to bring about a sig- by means of a Save Our Food law, and require food retailers and pro- nificant increase in animal welfare standards. For animal welfare to ducers to find suitable recipients for edible food instead of throwing become economically feasible, we want to support farmers: through it away. Taking food out of refuse containers must be decriminalised. a conversion subsidy, which is financed by an “animal welfare cent” on animal products, through fair prices and through a mandatory welfare Clear food labelling labelling system for animal products. Animal husbandry should thus be linked to the space available and to upper limits per stall to gua- It should be easy to identify good, sustainable and healthy food. We rantee they are managed in a way that is environmentally and animal- want to achieve the necessary transparency with clear information friendly. We will make sure that all stalls are made animal-friendly about the ingredients, origin, production and the ecological footprint and fireproof in line with specific standards that all farmers must of food. We will introduce an obligatory animal husbandry labelling comply with. We will provide targeted support for this as well as for system with demanding criteria for meat and other foods made from livestock grazing that preserves ecologically valuable grassland and or with animal ingredients and will advocate to make this mandatory uses it appropriately. It will no longer be permitted to build stalls in EU-wide. This should also incorporate the further development of ani- which animals cannot be kept according to the minimum standards mal welfare standards. We want to further develop the Nutriscore nut- set out by the EU regulations on organic farming. Instead of cruel Chapter 1 Chapter rition labelling scheme and apply it to all convenience foods throug- breeding practices for high yields, we want to promote robust and 1 Chapter hout the EU. We also want to improve the transparency around food dual-purpose breeds. We want to put an end to amputations, inter- origins. There must be better labelling of the allergens it contains. ventions without anaesthesia and cruel stunning methods as well as For the uniform labelling of vegetarian and vegan foods, we need an the use of cages and tethering. We will significantly reduce the use EU-wide, legally binding definition of “vegetarian” and “vegan”. Trans- of antibiotics in animal husbandry. In order to use these drugs in a parency must also apply to food hygiene, so the results of food audits more targeted way and prevent resistance, priority must be given to must be clear for all to see. treating individual sick animals. Reserved antibiotics should be kept for human medical use only. To avoid the transport of live animals, we will favour regional and mobile slaughterhouses over central abatto- We will enable animals to have a better life irs and will promote these accordingly. We want to limit animal transport to four hours and have better controls in place. The transport of More space for fewer farm animals live animals to third countries outside the EU should be completely prohibited. The system of “always cheaper, always more” has driven agriculture into a vicious circle: farmers are put under pressure by price dumping Protecting and respecting animals and have to keep producing more in order to survive, animals are bred more for performance and live increasingly shorter lives, and ecolo- Animals are sentient creatures and they need protection. We will the- gical and social problems keep increasing. Industrial factory farming refore improve the legal regulations around animal husbandry. We and cheap meat exports across the world are not compatible with a have a particular responsibility towards all animals that we keep. We climate-friendly future. We need to find a way out. Part of the solution want to give them a dignified, good and healthy life, free of pain, fear is for there to be significantly fewer animals than before and for them and stress. It is therefore necessary to enshrine effective sanctions to be able to lead a much better life. Animals need more space, access for animal welfare violations into animal protection and criminal law to the outdoors and activity – we want to bring in species-specific and to work with federal states and local authorities towards effec-

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tive enforcement. We will introduce a comprehensive right to take sive animal farming can contribute to pandemics, as shown by the collective legal action for recognised animal protection organisations. mink that were infected by the coronavirus. Animal husbandry must The recognised animal protection organisations and an independent therefore also be oriented towards the need to contain possible zoo- federal animal welfare officer should have the right to request infor- noses. We will work to ensure that the practice of keeping animals for mation and access to files and be able to deal with any violations of fur and the trade in fur from fur farms is ended. the legislation. The animal welfare officer should also support the relevant federal authorities and be involved in legislative proposals and animal welfare issues. We want better rules for the breeding, keeping and trade of animals. We will put an end to wild animals being kept in circuses. We will work towards continuing to reduce animal experimentation in science and want to replace it as soon as possible with a clear exit strategy and innovative research methods. To that end, we will work with all players involved towards future-oriented animal-free research, promote investment in animal-free innovations and the further development of improved drug and safety trials and Chapter 1 Chapter speed up the approval of processes that do not involve animal testing. 1 Chapter We will finally translate the EU regulations on animal testing into German law.

Reining in the trade in wild animals

The Covid-19 pandemic has made it clear that the health of the environment, animals and people must be thought of as a whole and this planetary health approach must become the guiding principle of our actions. The overexploitation of nature has no future. The pandemic was caused by a zoonosis: an infectious disease passed from animals to humans. Such illnesses are becoming increasingly common, faci- litated by the progressive destruction of nature and the encroach- ment of humans into the last natural habitats. This must be combated all across the world. Wild animals belong in the wild, the trade in such animals must be more strictly regulated and existing regulations must be rigorously enforced. In the countries of origin, economic alternatives must be established. The trade in wild animals via online portals and commercial marketplaces as well as commercial imports of animals captured in the wild and the import of hunting trophies must be completely banned. Keeping animals bred from wild animals should be linked to a positive list and a certificate of competence measured according to the difficulty of keeping each species. Inten-

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limits, instead of overusing our natural resources. Chapter 2: We will organise our social systems, the labour market and public finances so that they remain stable even when doing business within these limits. We can establish a social-ecological market economy in Doing business in the future the interests of the common good in Europe, that reconciles prosperity with sustainability and equity and serves people. This is the starting point for a new economic dynamism that creates future-proof Climate neutrality is a major opportunity for Germany as an industrial jobs, in skilled trades, start-ups or in the service sector, that ensures location. Green technologies from Germany are in demand worldwide. quality of life, enables us to develop freely as people and can create We Europeans are still the leaders in renewable hydrogen. For large climate-friendly prosperity. parts of German industry, the Paris Climate Agreement has become This requires determined politics that leads the way forwards and an integral part of their planning, and business investment strategies steers reliably. Not because the state is better at doing business, but are geared towards climate protection. Most businesses know that because the economy needs clear conditions, reliable political frame- the markets of the future are climate neutral. They also know that work conditions and incentives. Only then do businesses have plan- Germany can do so much more. In companies, minds and structures ning security and know that climate-neutral, sustainable business lies the innovative strength and the determination to do business in pays off. And only then can the innovative strength of employees the future. We can see the agility of entrepreneurs in developing new and entrepreneurs evolve into appropriate decisions for individual ideas or business models, while at the same time also wanting to businesses to create sustainable prosperity. live up to their social responsibility. And we are convinced that free, Unregulated markets can cause a lot of damage. However, if we Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter creative action, the dynamism of fair competition and the strength of shape markets to be sustainable and social, they can unleash the social cooperation enable problems to be solved innovatively. innovations that we need for the transformation. For this to succeed, Digitalisation means another major transition that will shape our we will consistently lay the foundations for climate neutrality and a economy and society decisively. We want to shape digitalisation and circular economy and create new scope for the economy within the make sure that the necessary innovations are developed and marke- planetary boundaries. We will create incentives, remove environmen- table in Europe. Germany and Europe should also be at the forefront tally harmful subsidies and set regulatory standards for sustainable of future technologies. To achieve this, we will also use the oppor- production, action and consumption. We will use concepts such as tunity to shape the debate provided by the German G7 Presidency in growth, efficiency, competition and innovation as a means to an end 2022. and reassess climate-friendly prosperity as the actual goal of politics. However, the German and European economy are under major We will launch a comprehensive investment campaign, both in the pressure: our industrial nation has to assert itself in global com- public and private sector, to counter the huge investment backlog petition with authoritarian state capitalism and largely unregulated in our country and significantly strengthen climate protection, digi- tech giants. The pandemic has hit many sectors of the economy hard, talisation and education. We will rely on a precautionary budgetary and some sectors had previously slept through the transformation. policy for this. The climate crisis and the finiteness of resources require a change We will resolutely deal with the inequities in the tax system of direction. At the same time, our understanding of what prosperity and use the incentive effect of taxes for climate protection and the means is changing. However, if we now go about it in a smart way, circular economy. We will ensure that very wealthy and prosperous we can recalibrate our economic and financial system. Then we can people and large corporations face up to their responsibilities more. ensure that growth only takes place in alignment with the planetary Global corporations should not be more powerful than governments

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– the primacy of democratic politics has to be asserted. We want to reduce the enormous gap between rich and poor, as societies in We will promote entrepreneurship, which inequality is low are generally happier societies. High incomes and assets should therefore contribute more to the financing of competition and ideas our community and take the pressure off lower ones. We also want to help reduce continuing serious economic imbalances in Europe A decade of investments for the future and worldwide through more public investment in Germany and by enforcing good wages. After the coronavirus pandemic, our country needs a new economic Economic and financial policy must be European. As Europeans, start. The best thing that politics can contribute to this is to do what we can set international standards with our strong internal market it has reprehensibly failed to do in the last ten years: invest in our and drive forward innovations. As long as there is distortion of com- common future. Only if the state also contributes its share, if public petition, it is also necessary to protect the EU internal market and, and private investments are jointly directed towards one goal, will above all, the critical infrastructure. At the same time, we advocate a Europe keep up in the area of modern future technologies and be able joint strategic foreign trade policy that makes fairness a requirement to assert itself in competition with the USA and China. We will launch of international competition and free world trade and promotes sus- an investment campaign in the next legislative period. With invest- tainable economic activities in accordance with human rights world- ment in high-speed internet, everywhere. Cutting-edge research, from wide. As Europeans, we are investing jointly in climate protection, quantum computers to the latest biotechnology. In climate-neutral research and the prosperity of the future; a Green New Deal is paving infrastructure, in charging stations, the expansion of rail, pedestrian the way for this. In a federal government, we will do everything in our and bicycle traffic, zero-emission buses, energy storage technologies, Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter

power to make the European Union the first CO2-free economic area. renewable energies and modern urban development. We want Ger- This is how we are laying the foundations for Germany and Europe many to go from being a straggler in terms of public investment com- to remain successful industrial locations with productive medium- pared to other industrialised countries, to becoming a frontrunner and sized companies, high added value, a strong social state and good to invest an additional EUR 50 billion per year in this decade. These jobs – in traditional and innovative industrial companies, in machine investments should also be subject to gender budgeting. This is how engineering and in small and medium-sized businesses. With an thesocial-ecological transformation can succeed, how we can create active economic and industrial policy, we will indicate a direction and sustainable prosperity and securethe competitiveness of our country offer future-proof businesses good conditions. This is how we will in an empowered European Union. turn the “Made in Germany” brand into a quality label for a future- proof economy in a climate-neutral and social Europe. In addition, A fresh start after the coronavirus crisis we will promote a cooperative and caring economic system. This will create many jobs in regional value chains, oriented towards public Many companies were hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic. While welfare instead of being profit-driven. We need a diverse economy some had to go deep into debt, others did not make it through the that is resistant to crises. crisis and had to give up their business. Especially hard hit are restau- rants, pubs, hotels, the tourism and events sector, the cultural industry, but also many retailers and self-employed people. A fresh start after the coronavirus crisis must therefore target help towards the sectors particularly affected - and at the same send a signal for a change in direction towards climate neutrality. This is how we will secure liveli-

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hoods, retain jobs and provide targeted economic stimuli. For this, we Introducing start-up capital will above all extend the tax loss carryback for small and medium- sized companies, introduce attractive, time-limited depreciation con- To ensure the prosperity of tomorrow, we need a wave of new entre- ditions and help small and medium-sized companies to re-establish preneurs. We want to ensure that no good ideas and no new start-ups themselves more easily with simplified restructuring procedures, fail due to a lack of equity by introducing a start-up capital scheme without having to file for bankruptcy. If coronavirus aid has to be that guarantees a one-off amount of up to EUR 25,000 for company paid back, companies require generous conditions. Secure contracts founders and successors. It is a condition that the funded start-up via empowered local authorities can support a fresh start for many has to be oriented towards the UN sustainability goals and that a self-employed people after the pandemic. We want to strengthen the viability audit is carried out by experts. It should be be made easy art and culture sector via a coordinated cultural funding policy and a for company founders: instead of having to plough through a jungle second opportunity to set up a business. Many public limited compa- of administration, they should be able to get information, advice and nies were supported by state assistance during the coronavirus crisis. the opportunity to register at a central contact point – everywhere Companies were saved from collapse by short-time working allowan- in Germany. They should be largely exempted from notification and ces, investments or other financial assistance. For any new aid, the reporting requirements for the first two years. Women are still under- following must apply: firms that receive state assistance will not be represented in start-ups and as successors; we want to offer them permitted to pay out any dividends. targeted support with a state venture capital fund only for women. We will ensure parity in the awarding bodies and selection committees. Climate protection technologies made in Germany Obstacles for people with a immigration background should also be dismantled; our country is letting huge potential go to waste here. We Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter Global competition for the technologies of tomorrow is in full swing. will involve start-ups more in public procurement and simplify the Made in Germany should not only stand for quality in the future, but procurement procedure and rules for the eligibility assessments. We even more for sustainable and innovative products and processes. The will facilitate employee participation and make it more widely acces- state and companies must work together to get to grips with digita- sible. An increasing number of start-ups want to support the common lisation and climate neutrality. While the state is making more public good with digital solutions. We will therefore integrate more social- investments, we also want to create incentives for more investments ecological criteria into the existing start-up financing. by companies. To do this, we will give companies additional targeted room for manoeuvre: investments should be able to be depreciated by Fair competition for climate-neutral industrial technologies at least 25% on a declining balance basis for a limited time. Tax incentives for research should be targeted more towards SMEs and start- The energy-intensive industries - steel, cement, chemicals – are

ups in future, and we want to evaluate and increase its effectiveness. responsible for 15 percent of German CO2 emissions. At the same Public investment grants should provide start-up support particularly time, they offer hundreds of thousands of good jobs and are also cor- for new technologies; climate contracts help to provide permanent nerstones of our prosperity. We want to turn these industries into planning security for long-term climate investments. technology pioneers in the development of climate-neutral processes. The machine engineering sector can take on a key role in the worldwide application of green technologies made in Germany. In this way, we will combat the climate crisis and contribute to safeguarding Ger- man as an industrial location. To enable investments to start flowing into long-term climate-friendly plants immediately, we will directly

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support the transformation with investment grants and declining this, we want to exploit the potential of new mobility services and balance depreciation. We will drive the decarbonisation of processes of autonomous driving on industrial sites and also for climate pro- forward by removing obstacles to self-supply with green electricity tection and road safety. In addition, it is also necessary to consider and increasing the use of green hydrogen. Climate contracts (Car- the opportunities for added value and jobs in the mobility transition: bon Contracts for Difference), which fund the difference between the from new jobs in local public transport to vehicle production. It is also

current carbon price and the actual CO2 avoidance costs will ensure important for Germany and Europe to catch up quickly in the area of

investment security. And with quotas for the share of CO2-neutral raw battery cell production. Particularly for the next generation of batte-

materials, we will create lead markets for CO2-free products. We par- ries, that are cheaper and more resource-efficient, we want to create ticularly want to support pilot plants for low-emission technologies our own sustainable battery production in Europe, which includes an that are not yet market-ready. And as far as possible, the goal should effective recycling system as well as research and development into be for new industrial plants to be built or exported that can already the next generation of batteries. For this, we will back clear guidelines be operated with zero emissions. For the transformation of the che- for ecological standards and a comprehensive research and funding mical industry, we will focus on new innovative products, processes programme. We want to support the automotive regions particularly and techniques that not only promote greenhouse gas neutrality, but affected via regional transformation dialogues and funds. In this way, also the circular economy, that increase efficiency, avoid emissions we will preserve the value chain of medium-sized companies and and waste from the outset and make us independent of fossil raw secure local jobs. We want to support employees in the car industry materials such as crude oil or natural gas. and their suppliers by providing options to gain qualifications and further training. A future-proof car industry Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter Strengthening the European semiconductor industry The car industry is facing huge upheavals. Competition for the zero- emission, digital car of the future is happening worldwide. After years A successful and far-sighted industrial policy will only work if it is of stagnation, the German car sector has also finally made a move conceived of in a pan-European way. Particularly with a view to any in this direction. Now, determination and cooperation are required necessary sectoral structural support, such as the development of to create future-proof jobs and climate-friendly added value in the hydrogen infrastructure, the production of solar modules and battery car industry. The transformation of the automotive industry into an cells or supporting the semiconductor industry, a European orienta- important player for sustainable mobility is essential. Politics has tion is crucial. To reduce critical dependencies, we are committed to a key role to play here; it must establish the framework and shape European cooperation with open standards. EU capacity in the area the transformation process. One thing is clear here: the combustion of semiconductor technology should be expanded to 20 percent of engine has no future. From 2030 onwards, we only want to register worldwide production as proposed by the EU Commission. This applies zero-emission new cars. In addition, we also want to set standards above all to the areas in which we already have a strong European in the car industry for a circular economy and climate-neutral pro- position in semiconductor technology for industrial applications or in duction, as well as decarbonisation in the steel sector, so that the which particularly dynamic development can be expected in future, ecological footprint of vehicles is increasingly reduced. We will sup- such as renewable energies. For this to happen, investments need to port this transformation with research and innovation funding for all be increased all along the semiconductor value chain. technology options and want to promote the rapid development of the charging station infrastructure and the expansion of the market for emission-free vehicles via a cost-neutral points system. As part of

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Renewable energies made in Europe: a key branch for climate and consumers all the important information on the design, carbon protection footprint, repairability and materials that is necessary for a climate- neutral circular economy. Efficient use of materials and a circular eco- To become climate-neutral, we need one thing above all: a very large nomy reduce energy consumption and will make a significant contri- amount of renewable energy. To build the plants for this, we do not bution to the success of the energy transition. want to be entirely dependent on suppliers outside Europe and end up in another situation of import dependency. The good news is that Putting research results into practice and stimulating the start- there are still manufacturers of key components such as wind tur- up culture bines and inverters in Europe and there are also once again initial investments in production capacities for the extremely important PV Research is conducted according to the highest standards at our uni- module production. Various innovations in photovoltaics are indica- versities and research institutes. However, promising research results ting that the potential of this technology has not been exhausted – including, in particular, findings from basic research – must be put to the full by any means. The German solar industry should become into practice more often. The success of the vaccines is encouraging a driving force. We want to support this development with targeted in this respect: an entirely new technology enabled the development investment assistance. and production of several coronavirus vaccines in record time. Howe- ver, structural barriers are still preventing spin-offs. The existing fun- Making the circular economy standard and driving forward the ding programmes for translating research into applications are not repair and recycling industry sufficient. We want to drive forward the expansion of funding programmes for high-tech start-ups, start-up centres and training for ent- Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter Rubbish is a design error and a waste of important resources and repreneurs. Silent participation by public institutions should become raw materials – which are finite and make us dependent. We need the new standard for spin-offs. In addition, we want to give stronger a new policy for raw materials as we move to a circular economy, support to the development of vaccines, drugs and medical products. one which reduces the use of primary raw materials, replaces fos- If they are researched and developed with a significant share of public sil raw materials with renewable ones and ties global raw material money, clear conditions must be attach to the funding in relation to extraction to high transparency, social and environmental standards. the transparency of research costs, fair pricing and equitable access In the area of domestic raw material extraction, we want to step up opportunities worldwide. We are likewise committed to a medium- dialogue between the players involved. Whether it‘s packaging, buil- term standardisation of incorporation and company law within the dings, cars or laptops – we will create the legal framework conditions European Economic Area. and economic incentives so that all products can be used for a long time, reused, shared, repaired and recycled into high-quality materials. Making management boards more diverse Ultimately this means by 2050 at the latest: no more rubbish and an end to planned obsolescence, instead, more local green jobs in a Germany is diverse; its boardrooms are not (yet). However, diverse new European repair and recycling industry that reduces dependency teams lead companies more successfully. Therefore, the diversity on finite resources and raw material imports. We will point the way of German society must urgently also be reflected in boardrooms with mandatory obligations for manufacturers, ambitious recycling and governing bodies as well as business. Although women are at quotas, tax and levy rules, norms and standards and targeted funding least as qualified as men, they are absent at that level. Our goal is programmes. By 2030, we will provide all goods and materials that and remains: for women to have half the power. Voluntary regulati- enter the market with a digital product passport that gives companies ons have achieved nothing. That is why we need quotas that really

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create the critical mass to reach our goal of a 50 percent proportion tional and professional qualifications, including reciprocal arrange- of women. Thus in future, it will be a mandatory requirement that at ments within the EU. Generally, we want to speed up the recogni- least a third of the new appointments to board positions at larger tion of foreign educational qualifications and make the recognition and listed companies should go to women. To make this easier we procedure less expensive. To guarantee fair procedures for all in also want to eliminate barriers such as the lack of parental leave the recognition of academically recognised university degrees not provisions in company law. The supervisory boards of these compa- recognised by the state up to now, we want to examine possible nies should aim for a mandatory proportion of women of at least 40 adjustments required and improve recognition practice. Refugees percent when making new appointments. Companies owned by the should have the opportunity to change their status, giving them federal government or in which the federal government has a stake, more legal certainty while training, studying and working, thereby ministries and public authorities should set a good example with also providing employment prospects for them in Germany. We will clear plans for parity in their operational structures. Career promo- support businesses that give refugees and immigrants an opportu- tion is not only about those at the top. Therefore, we are committed nity for training and employment, if necessary by providing contact to dismantling obstacles to the advancement of women in compa- persons, qualifications, advice and guidance. nies and organisations. Going forward, the aim is for women to make up 50 percent of the management positions in ministries, adminis- A medium-sized enterprise policy targeting innovation trations, public agencies, municipal associations and municipal companies. We want to make business development more gender-equi- The German medium-sized enterprise segment is versatile, innovative table and support women where they are under-represented with and internationally competitive. It is here that the solutions for the targeted measures, for instance, through a state venture capital fund challenges of the future are emerging and it is they that create added Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter only for start-ups founded by women. value in the regions and for them. Our medium-sized enterprise policy is based on the triad of a reduction of bureaucratic burdens, an innova- Combatting the shortage of skilled workers tion-friendly tax policy and a wide-ranging research landscape. We will support the medium-sized enterprise segment in terms of innovation Due to demographic changes, the number of people of working age and transformation through quicker planning and permits and effi- will shrink by six million in the next 15 years. At the same time, the cient, digital administration. Reporting obligations should be simpli- jobs of the future require entirely new skills. The labour shortage fied. To achieve this, proposals should be tested and improved together and shortage in skilled workers will increase. We want to counte- with users from the administration and companies of all sizes. This ract this. For this, we will invest more in vocational and in-service will require consistent application and improvement of so-called SME training. Dual vocational training should be enhanced by further tests at the national and European level, along with the expansion development and modernisation; especially with regard to course of public procurement more oriented towards innovation. To support content and facilities. The funding needs to be adjusted. The master and take pressure off solo self-employed people and micro-enterpri- craftsman certificate should be free of charge, like university study. ses, the profit threshold for the requirement to keep accounts will be We will not let any potential go to waste: we will dismantle obst- raised. We are committed to good conditions for small businesses and acles often still standing in the way of women, older people, people self-employed people so that they get fair chances in competition. We with disabilities, young people from low-income homes and peo- want to make funding programmes and investment grants sustaina- ple with an immigration background and we will counteract gender ble and ensure that it is primarily SMEs that benefit from them. For stereotypes. We will make immigration into our country easier by this, they should be significantly easier to apply for and document. introducing a talent card and faster recognition of foreign educa- In addition, tailored advice on climate protection and digitalisation

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should be supported, including over longer periods. We want to syste- to their full legal remedies again. Data protection authorities should matically strengthen the promotion of regional innovation ecosystems be consulted when a merger control process is being carried out by consisting of universities, the medium-sized enterprise segment and the Federal Cartel Office and their opinions should be taken into civil society by founding an independent innovation agency (D.Innova). consideration in the decision on the merger. Oriented towards global sustainability goals, D.Innova should systematically, proactively and flexibly promote these types of innovation Securing the future viability of a strong skilled trade sector networks – from Aachen to Anklam and from Flensburg to Füssen. We want to strengthen the regional economy via the companies, value Skilled trades are present everywhere in our everyday lives and are chains and products operating locally and back clearly defined regio- indispensable. They are characterised by their great variety: from hea- nal labels and promotion concepts. ting installation businesses to bakeries, from medium-sized companies with hundreds of employees to micro-businesses. The sector is Affordable rents for small and medium-sized enterprises one of the most important economic factors in Germany. Skilled trades provide crisis-proof jobs in a sustainable economy and contribute Property speculation has caused commercial rents to rise in many significantly to the ecological transition. They also provide prospects cases to economically unsustainable levels, and there is no end to for young people in rural areas. Particularly for them, the ecological this trend in sight. Many small traders and business people are being transformation offers huge opportunities – from building renovation pushed out. We want small and medium-sized companies, just like to replacing heating systems. We want to improve the framework con- social institutions, to have permanently better protection against ditions by reducing bureaucracy, supporting successors and providing eviction and more rights to extend fixed-term rental agreements targeted support for training in the skilled trades. The primary goal Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter with reasonable conditions. Furthermore, we will work for the intro- is the preservation and future viability of businesses. A significant duction of commercial rent control, allowing a cap on commercial increase in the number of trained and further trained people is also rents in cities with a pressurised commercial space market. required in various sectors, such as the building sector. To make skilled trade occupations more attractive, we are committed to stronger Competition law for the 21st century collective bargaining agreements, sector-specific minimum remuneration and more equivalence between vocational and academic trai- Strong competition law is a fundamental requirement for fair eco- ning. The ability to transfer from university into the skilled trades and nomic relationships, prevents monopolies and protects consumers. back should be a given, as should international exchanges and access Environmental protection and social standards cannot be allowed to scholarships. to become collateral damage of competition. Therefore, we want to adapt national rules on unfair competition so that a breach against Culture creates prosperity environmental and social standards can be prosecuted as unfair competition. In addition, we want to incorporate the consideration The cultural and creative industries are one of the most undervalued of environmental protection aspects into German and European sectors in Germany. Before coronavirus, the over 1.2 million creatives merger control procedures at a fundamental level. We want to make and cultural workers achieved a turnover of nearly EUR 180 billion in consumer protection an objective of the Act against Restraints of 2019 alone – more than, for example, the chemical industry or finan- Competition and effectively reinforce its public enforcement. We cial service providers. However, the cultural and creative industries want to adapt the controversial ministerial permission process in have been existentially threatened by the coronavirus crisis, including the context of merger controls so that opposing parties have access in particular small businesses such as independent publishers, private

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theatres, arthouse cinemas, small clubs and event venues. We will only be able to save large parts of our cultural life from collapsing by tar- We will provide a socio-ecological framework geted protection and improved support. We will expand the definition of innovation in the programmes for promoting business start-ups so for the market that the cultural and creative industries also benefits from these. We will specifically tailor funding programmes to the needs of the cul- Reassessing prosperity and entrepreneurial success tural and creative industries and we will expand start-up support to take people out of unemployment as needed. Prosperity is not only defined by the growth of the GDP, but can be understood in much broader terms as quality of life. We want to mea- Helping the tourist industry get back on its feet sustainably sure the success of Germany and its companies not only on the basis of economic criteria, but also based on inclusive, social, ecological The travel and tourism industry – a central economic factor that and societal criteria and reorient the political guiding principles such employs millions of people – has been hard hit by the coronavi- as incentives and economic development accordingly. To do this, an rus crisis. We want to help it get back on its feet and, at the same annual prosperity report should be published in future alongside the time, make tourism after coronavirus more climate-friendly, ecolo- annual economic report. This will also consider, for example, the con- gical and socially sustainable. Ecologically and socially blind mass tribution nature protection, an equitable distribution of income or tourism with climate-damaging cruise ships, an endless production good education makes to prosperity in our society. Accordingly, we of waste and huge consumption of resources has no future. Rather, will change the performance measurement at company level and the cruise industry must finally also play its part by means of new add social and ecological values to the accounting rules, such as for Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter propulsion systems, the use of shore-side electricity and better envi- instance their greenhouse gas emissions, and we will also advocate ronmental standards. On the other hand, sustainable tourism offers for this for international regulations. In this way we will finally achieve huge opportunities. We will support the targeted development of uniform rules for measuring sustainable entrepreneurial success and sustainable or soft tourism especially in rural regions, for example make an important contribution to sustainability not being punished by expanding tourist cycle routes and waterways. We want to make as it is today, but rather positively encouraged. nature something everyone can experience with a shelter system like the one in Denmark. At the same time, national parks, biosphere An ambitious design for the European Green Deal reserves and nature protection areas should be protected long-term by means of regulated tourism. The train should become the number In the European Green Deal, the EU Commission has presented a pro- one mode of transportation for tourism – via a European overnight gramme to make the European Union the first climate-neutral conti- train network and the targeted connection of tourist regions to the nent. It includes proposals for legislation in the areas of climate and rail network. In this way, tourism can help to preserve a world that environmental protection as well as for increased competitiveness, is still worth visiting in the future. energy security and innovative dynamism in a decarbonised European economy. We will advocate for an ambitious design and bold implementation at all levels. We will continue to push for the ecological transition to contribute to reducing inequality. For this, we want to top up and expand the Just Transition Fund. In agricultural policy, we are fighting for the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy and its implementation to be included as one of the objectives of the Green

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Deal and the Paris Climate Agreement as they will have enormous ecologically inspired company start-ups oriented towards the common effects on environmental and species protection. In trade policy, we good. To achieve this, we will systematically improve the framework want to make the environment and social sections of future trade conditions under which they do business and eliminate existing dis- agreements legally binding and enforceable. advantages. We want to make the start-up grant from the employment agencies dependent not only on economic profit but also on socio-eco- Using the power the EU internal market for the transformation logical impact criteria. We want to use unused balances in abandoned accounts – provided there are no inheritance claims on them – for a The EU internal market is a success story that is based on its high fund that specifically invests in sustainable and social innovationst. standards, particularly in global competition: in consumer and data protection, in environmental and health protection as well as for New types of company for sustainable entrepreneurship social security and product safety. We want to preserve and expand these high standards as part of a socio-ecological transformation of We are committed to introducing a legal company form for responsi- the internal market because they increase the innovative strength ble ownership. An increasing number of entrepreneurs do not regard of companies, enable economies of scale to be exploited and foster their company as an individually consumable asset. They do not want international trade. To shape digitalisation, we must regulate the ser- their company to serve the interests of short-term shareholder value, vices of platforms and their market power. Platforms must be obliged but instead they want it to be oriented towards the long term and to to guarantee European quality and security standards, including in serve the common good. For this, they need a legal form that enables online commerce. We want to increase the global steering effect of a one hundred percent commitment of the assets to the company. the internal market by ensuring that companies in the European mar- Profits are reinvested or donated. Voting rights can be held in trust Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter ket also take responsibility internationally for their production and by employees collectively or by individuals – they are not sold to the distribution methods along the entire value chain. We want to expand highest bidder, but instead, similar to the arrangement in partnerships the scope for action of local authorities in the European Union and of lawyers, always passed on to people actively linked to the company. protect public services from the pressure to liberalise.

Strengthening social enterprises and cooperatives We will drive digitalisation forward

We want to strength the areas in the economy in which long-term sus- A European cloud infrastructure tainability counts more that short-term profits and that often contribute to the democratisation of the economy. We therefore support coopera- Data is a key resource in the digital world, especially for artificial tives on the one hand as they are more crisis-proof and more oriented intelligence applications. We want to create new approaches, especi- towards the common good than other legal forms. On the other hand, ally in the industrial sector, to improve and provide legal certainty for we will promote social enterprises as they combine a social purpose the joint, voluntary use of both non-personal and personal but anony- with entrepreneurial activity directly via socio-ecological goals. And we mised data, for example from development and production processes. welcome the concept of the economy for the common good because it The medium-sized company segment will benefit in particular from spreads broad-scale awareness of the idea of the common good across this. This requires clear legal rules of play for cooperative and decen- the private sector. We will create funding tools for specific target groups tralised data pools and data trust models such as data cooperatives, and we want to expand the programmes for traditional start-up and for example, that enable the joint use of this data, verifiable by com- innovation funding. Our goal is a wave of new cooperatives and socio- petition authorities. We want to set our own European standards and

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rules. We want to protect our own critical infrastructure and create a help give our start-up entrepreneurs a permanent home. We are cal- joint European cloud infrastructure based on open source technolo- ling for even more, even faster investment. This future fund should gies. Europe must invest in its own expertise in the area of processing combine scattered funding offers and leverage significant amounts large amounts of data for artificial intelligence. of private funds. At the same time, a functioning secondary market for direct investment and shares in venture capital funds should be set Enhancing our position as a high-tech location up, for example through a co-investment platform. The mission of the future fund will be sustainability. It will finance projects in areas such The rapid development of the coronavirus vaccine by scientists and as green tech, artificial intelligence, sustainable mobility, bioeconomy entrepreneurs from Mainz has shown the innovative strength inherent and the circular economy in particular, as these do not easily obtain in our research and corporate landscape. Innovative strength that the financing on the market due to their risk profile. We want to adapt state must support with speed and determined investments. We want forms of financing specifically for founding start-ups in the green to particularly support the areas of artificial intelligence (AI), quantum economy and to dismantle barriers in accessing public procurement computing, IT security and communications technology and biotech- contracts. We want to promote regional green tech hubs to facilitate nology, as well as the further development of ecological battery cells cooperation between start-ups and established companies. in order to secure our technological sovereignty and play a leading role in global competition. Here, we will place a particular focus on Regulating internet giants exploiting the ecological and social potential of these technologies. In this way, innovations will improve people‘s living conditions and We advocate functioning, fair competition in the digital markets. ensure prosperity for tomorrow. For this we also need private risk This is being restricted, or even removed, by the excessive market Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter capital, which we want to strongly leverage with state funds. A strong power of a few internet and tech giants. Relevant acquisitions by tech European network of cutting-edge research is required to be able companies should be examined by the Federal Cartel Office to prevent to keep up in international competition against other locations. We the strategic purchase of budding competition (“killer acquisitions”). In will invest in cutting-edge research and the formation of clusters in the process, data protection authorities should have an opportunity to these fields. We want to lay the foundation stone today for European provide an opinion. The interoperability of their software and digi- sovereignty in relation to other AI trends, for instance by supporting a tal services as well as data portability and open interfaces should be European ecosystem for testing artificial general intelligence. Howe- required to be guaranteed wherever possible by market dominant ver, enhancing our position as a high-tech location also means attrac- companies. We will advocate for an appropriately ambitious imple- ting the urgently needed talent. This means adequate funding for mentation of the Digital Markets Act at the European level. Therefore research. we want to establish a European digital supervisory authority under the umbrella of an independent European cartel office to act as an Giving start-up venture capital a direction early warning system and be able to impose sanctionable cooperation and transparency duties. Companies should be able to be split, irre- We have to not only show excellence in technology, but also be able spective of any malpractice, when their market power is becoming too to convert groundbreaking technologies into new business models, great or is already too great. markets, services and products. Funding opportunities and networks for start-ups and young enterprises at the national and European level can make the difference between a good idea on a flip chart and a globally successful company. A state venture capital fund can

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Gender diversity in the digital economy General Act on Equal Treatment as well as strict criteria for the use of algorithmic and automatic decisions, especially in public administ- Everyone should be involved in shaping the digital transformation ration. Platform providers must also make their automated decisions, and be able to contribute their capabilities. Therefore, we will put for- comparisons or prices transparent and be able to explain these ward and implement a Women in Digitalisation strategy. Girls should be inspired by digital topics early on at primary school and grow up IT security as a location factor without gender stereotypes in relation to technology. We need teaching that is sensitive to gender, targeted approaches to encourage Good IT security and clear standards based on the rule of law safegu- women onto STEM courses and into skilled occupations as well as ard basic rights and are a prerequisite for the digital transformation more women in the committees where these strategic decisions are to succeed. It is the duty of the state to guarantee these. In particular, made. In addition, we will promote family-friendly training paths for critical infrastructure such as our power grids must be specially pro- women with other occupational backgrounds to access the digital tected. Good IT security has been an important location factor for a sector. A change in culture is needed in the digital sector, and also to long time. Anyone who wants to be digitally sovereign must act accor- realise our full innovation potential. Both voluntary and mandatory dingly and must not undermine the security of everyone. Effective, measures for companies are necessary to enable discrimination-free up-to-date data protection protects human dignity and looks more jobs and equal access to positions of influence in the digital trans- closely at society as a whole to design collective defence measures, formation. When allocating funding and public investments, the pro- including against supraindividual risks. We will provide incentives for portion of women in an organisation or a start-up must be taken into good data protection and the best IT security and we want to expand consideration. Diversity should be a guiding principle for all digital innovative, technical approaches for effectively protecting privacy and Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter strategies in government institutions. press ahead with audits and uniform European certification. SMEs especially should be much more strongly supported by a decentra- Transparent algorithms lised and independent IT advisory network. The state itself must set a good example, increase its support for the important work of the Data processing and algorithmic decision systems have the poten- supervisory authorities and improve their cooperation in federal and tial to generate new knowledge and thereby enable more sustainable European interactions, right up to the joint performance of tasks and action. Data-driven systems are not neutral as they are a product of enforcement. We will strengthen the independence of the Federal their underlying data and can therefore be discriminatory and preju- Office for Information Security. IT security must be planned and imple- diced. Therefore, we want to promote quality criteria as well as the mented right from the beginning in state IT projects. In addition, we European efforts for transparency and verifiability so that algorith- want to specifically promote the development of secure hardware. To mic decision systems do not operate in a discriminatory way. We will improve the sustainability of digital products, we will introduce an advocate for a European regulatory framework, tiered according to obligation for the adequate, risk-based and user-friendly provision of risks, for the use of automatic systems with clear rules on traceability, security updates. During the roll-out of digital infrastructure, such as data protection, employment law and data quality to allow monito- 5G, for example, we want to safeguard our critical infrastructure, the ring and provide accountability, but also to provide legal certainty digital sovereignty of Europe and adherence to human rights such as for the companies concerned. Here, we want to more strongly define the right to privacy. This requires the highest IT security standards for and implement the same standards at the European level. For pub- components used in digital infrastructure first of all. And secondly, we lic monitoring of these rules, public authorities must be well-trained want to strengthen Europe‘s technological independence by increa- and in a technical position to do this. This also means updating the sing developments and production within the EU and through diverse

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digital ecosystems and open standards. To be able to assess specific bringing them back into public ownership. Trade agreements should threats, legal, constitutional, security and geostrategic aspects have to not only regulate the rights of companies, but also their duties. We be subject to scrutiny as well as technical aspects. We reject any par- therefore advocate a multilateral trade court at the United Nations ticipation in the critical infrastructure by untrustworthy companies, that covers both aspects. International corporations must not become especially from authoritarian states. even more powerful through trade and investment lawsuits; therefore we reject lawsuit privileges or preferential justice for foreign investors. We want the EU and its member states to pull out of the com- We will fight for fair and sustainable trade pletely outdated Energy Charter Treaty, in part so as not to endanger the goals of the EU‘s Green Deal. We reject trade agreements that do A fresh start for good trade agreements not adequately protect the climate, the environment and consumers. Therefore, we will not ratify the CETA agreement in its present form. Trade is an important basis for our prosperity: fair trade helps to dee- In this way, we will ensure that the dangerous investor-state dispute pen international partnerships and thereby also to make the world settlement courts do not come into effect. We are also severely criti- safer. Especially in times that are increasingly marked by systemic com- cal of the currently provisionally applied sections of CETA. We want petition between democratic and authoritarian states, we are commit- to further develop the agreement together with Canada and thereby ted to a proactive trade policy. We want multilateral world trade and reorient it. We particularly want to improve the democratic control of trade agreements that help to provide prosperity for everyone, call for regulatory cooperation. Here, the European Parliament must be better environmental and climate protection as well as adherence to human integrated in the future. In addition, stronger regulations are required rights and strengthen the relationships with our partners working on environmental, climate and consumer protection and safeguar- Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter for democracy and freedom. Fragmentation of trade relations makes ding the European precautionary principle. The EU-China investment international cooperation more difficult. A sustainable and fair refor- agreement that has been moved ahead significantly by the German med World Trade Organisation (WTO) must contribute to real global federal government is inadequate in the areas of a level playing field partnership. As a first step, we want to revive the WTO Appellate Body and human rights. We cannot agree to it in its current form. for dispute settlement to curb the growing number of trade conflicts conducted according to the law of the strongest. We want to seize An active foreign trade policy and fair competition the opportunity to resolve trade conflicts with the new US administration and create a transatlantic market for climate-neutral products. To protect legitimate security interests and implement equal com- We reject agreements with negative consequences for the environ- petitive conditions for all market participants, the EU must react if ment or food sovereignty, such as the EU-Mercosur agreement with parties from third countries operate on the EU internal market using Latin American states. The European Union can enter trade negotia- unfair means, and must also pursue an active foreign trade policy. tions confidently due to its large common internal market. European Anti-dumping and anti-subsidy instruments must be further deve- trade agreements must be binding and contain enforceable human loped to achieve a level playing field on global markets. Die anti- rights, environmental and social standards and principally only regu- dumping rules must be even more strictly applicable than before, late market openings in the service industry via positive lists. This including in relation to dumping due to low ecological and social includes making the Paris Climate Agreement as well as the ILO core standards. A reform of the EU state aid law can prevent distortions labour standards an enforceable condition. The European precautio- in competition by state funded corporations from other regions of nary principle must always be upheld. Good trade policy must ade- the world. The EU review mechanism for foreign direct investment quately protect local authority public services and the possibility of must be improved to prevent European companies being taken over

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by highly subsidised foreign firms, and a new EU instrument against standards, human rights and climate and species protection along economic coercion should help the EU to defend itself against the entire international value chain in future, a binding and effective unlawful economic pressure from outside. German foreign trade supply chain law is required at both the national and European level. promotion and its instruments must support hidden champions in In addition, this type of binding framework creates equal competi- future – instead of fossil installations and power plants – such as, for tive conditions in the market and creates legal certainty. Civil liabi- example, those that produce high-tech equipment for better envi- lity represents the core of such regulation and is the basis on which ronmental and living conditions. To do this, they must be resolutely companies can be called to account in the event of damage. Impro- geared towards the 1.5-degree target, the Agenda for Sustainable vements to the German Supply Chain Act are urgently required, for Development and human rights. Together with the EU Commission, example an expansion of the companies included, but also an exten-

we will advocate for a border adjustment of CO2 costs so that ambi- sion of the environmental due diligence obligations. In addition, we tious climate protection does not become a competitive disadvan- also advocate ambitious, binding regulation in international supply tage. We will campaign for the EU to also support poorer trading chains at the European level. Goods that are manufactured in the partner countries with decarbonisation with the proceeds from this context of serious human rights violations such as child labour or border adjustment. forced labour should be denied entry to the EU internal market. At the EU level, we will also push for a ban on imports of agricultural Fair trade for sustainable development in the Global South products that are linked to illegal deforestation and human rights violations such as displacement. Throughout the world, forests, The development opportunities for the countries of the Global especially tropical, virgin and mangrove forests are being cleared South strongly depend on how fair trade policy is. Fair trade must and burned at an increasing rate – primarily for agro-industrial pro- Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter become the standard, and is also necessary to break with continuing duction such as the cultivation of soya and palm oil or for mining postcolonial legacies. It must be oriented towards the Paris Climate or logging. The EU imports a large part of these goods. We want to Agreement, the Agenda for Sustainable Development and the UN reinforce the EU Timber Regulation, stop the use of soya and palm core human rights treaties. Existing fair trade initiatives must be oil as fuel now and push ahead with strategies to reduce palm oil fostered. In terms of a sustainable global structural policy, an equi- and soya in other areas. We will protect forests here and around table trade policy with the countries in the Global South is urgently the world, promote the reforestation and renaturation of destroyed required, one that fosters regional value creation, regional trade and areas and want to establish treaties and partnerships for this pur- integration and gives them enough space to protect their markets pose with relevant countries. We are also committed to GMO-free with duties and quotas and to restrict the export of domestic raw supply chains. At the international level, the preparation of a legally materials through export taxes. This will promote the expansion of binding UN treaty on business and human rights (Binding Treaty) domestic industries. Duties on processed products should be redu- must be pushed forward. ced or eliminated for countries in the Global South. We reject any exploitation of development cooperation to keep out refugees.

Implementing a supply chain law across Europe

Far too often, we buy things manufactured on the basis of overexploitation of humans and nature, even though this is not our intention. To ensure that companies implement environmental and social

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years, the balance sheets were repeatedly waved through to cover up We will make the financial markets the omissions of the previous years. We want companies in general to have to change their auditors after six years. Auditing firms must more stable and more sustainable not simultaneously advise companies that they audit. The detection of accounting fraud must be legally enshrined as their goal. Auditing Green financial markets firms must be effectively supervised by the state. The personal liability of decision-makers in companies must actually come into effect in the In the fight against the climate crisis and in the socio-ecological res- event of legal violations. Supervisory boards also need to be streng- tructuring of our economy, the financial system plays a significant thened and members should have relevant skills and expertise. The role. Billions are still being invested in fossil fuels and business remuneration of management board members must be based on long- models that are built on the destruction of ecosystems and violation term company success rather than the short-term stock market price. of human rights – and thereby against our future. We will ensure that the public sector withdraws entirely from these investments if there A financial supervisory authority with teeth continue to be no reliable steps introduced for a sustainable transformation of the underlying companies. Public sector banks, insurance We need a financial supervisory authority with teeth that points out companies and pension funds as well as the federal government as irregularities rather than enabling them. In the case of Wirecard, the an investor and co-owner of companies must play a pioneering role German financial supervisory authority (BaFin) failed miserably, as so in the green financial transition and transformation financing. Climate often before. As the regulator, BaFin banned short selling of Wire- and environmental risks should be disclosed and, in the case of banks card shares and denounced journalists who uncovered irregularities. Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter and insurance companies, should be backed by capital and taken into This was equivalent to a clean bill of health for Wirecard. As a result, account in ratings. All investments, not only green ones, must have investors not only lost their money, but also their trust in Germany as a sustainability assessment that is transparent for all investors. In a financial centre and its supervisory authority. Financing will thus be addition to the climate goals, this should also take into account other more difficult and more expensive for honest companies in the future. environmental effects, human rights, labour standards and develop- The culture and self-conception at BaFin need to change completely. ment goals. The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority needs robust An error culture is required within the supervisory authority, as well as ESG supervisory competence in accordance with the sustainable a culture of scepticism and questioning. We want to create a financial finance regulation. This assessment must also be included in invest- police force with comprehensive auditing rights that exchanges infor- ment advice. To protect the climate, but also to protect investors, we mation with all the relevant authorities at home and abroad. Customs need a uniform certification of sustainable financial products at the has an important role as a federal authority in the area of combatting European level. In this way, we will ensure that capital is redirected financial crime, tax evasion and money laundering. Currently it is not away from dirty investments into green and sustainable investments. in a position to fulfil this role in terms of staff and organisation. We Nuclear power is not a green investment. will equip it better and give it the necessary powers established under the rule of law so that it can effectively combat serious financial crime Clean balance sheets on the German capital market in the future.

In the Wirecard accounting scandal, the responsible auditors and the state regulator failed in their task. Only after a new company looked at the balance sheets was it properly examined, while in the preceding

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Banking needs to become boring again comprehensively confiscate illegal funds and assets. We want to make it easier to freeze suspicious financial transactions and extend the Even over ten years after the financial crisis, there is still a risk to the duration of transaction bans to ensure prosecution. We will examine economy coming from the banks. It has still not been ruled out that, the introduction of a high upper limit for cash payments, as proposed in the event of a collapse, taxpayers will have to foot the bill. There- by the EU Commission. fore we want to go back to “boring banking”. Banks should not specu- late, but instead should finance the real economy. Instead of the ever Introducing the digital euro more opaque flood of regulation, we want simple, hard rules. We will close the regulatory loopholes relating to shadow banks, payment Digital payment is becoming increasingly important in our everyday service providers and fintechs: every product and every player must lives. It is convenient, quick and should become even more secure. be regulated. We will make the debt limit (leverage ratio) for banks We are in favour of the initiative by the European Central Bank (ECB) binding and incrementally increase it to 10 percent. Risky investment to create a digital euro. This will ensure data security and legal cer- business must be separated from the deposit and lending business tainty for consumers and companies and increase the efficiency of (separate banking system). Investment banks must also be strictly euro transactions. It will help to counter unjustified costs by oligopo- supervised and business areas that lead to conflicts of interest must lies. Private firms will be able to develop products and apps based on be hived off. Strong merger control is required and banks that are too it. A digital euro will not replace traditional cash, but rather comple- large should be broken up. In contrast, there should be simpler rules ment it. We strictly reject the undermining of the money and currency for small banks that do not represent a risk to the financial system. monopoly by private currencies of powerful large corporations. For all We will make speculation and a short-term orientation unattractive, digital payments and cryptocurrencies, the actual beneficial owners Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter among other things, via an EU-wide financial transaction tax with must be identified above a certain threshold, similar to the regulati- a broad tax base. To increase the stability and predictability of the ons for cash. Combatting crimes such as money laundering, portraying financial markets, we will curb damaging high-frequency trading. child sexual abuse, tax evasion and financing terrorism requires clear rules, including in relation to digital payment. We want to expand Seizing dirty money existing cooperation duties of crypto exchanges and adequately train the investigating authorities in this area. We want to respond to the Our country is currently a paradise for money laundering. We will rapid developments in the area of decentralised financial applicati- introduce a comprehensive strategy to crack down on money launde- ons and explore the opportunities and risks of cryptocurrencies and ring. There must be comprehensive transparency about the beneficial blockchains in a differentiated way. owners for all companies, foundations and other constructs. We are in favour of reducing the threshold for the identification requirement to 10 percent. Gaps and workarounds in relation to the Transparency We will complete the European Economic and Register will be closed. The financial supervisory authority must play an active role in combatting money laundering instead of only pas- Monetary Union sing on suspicious activity reports. Money laundering often remains undetected in the non-financial sector, especially in real estate. We Investing in Europe‘s future will enforce national minimum standards for supervision, audits, resources and staff. Responsibility for combatting money laundering Europe‘s societies and companies rely on strong public infrastructure. should be completely transferred to the federal government. We will Therefore it is all the more dangerous that it has deteriorated so

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much in recent years where no investment has taken place. We want own again. Moreover, we welcome the fact that the ECB is fulfilling to expand the European Monetary Union into a social union. In import- its responsibility for the stability of the euro in all member states by ant future-oriented areas such as digitalisation or battery production, keeping interest rate differences within the eurozone within limits. We Europe is in danger of getting left behind. We will consistently invest in stand by the independence of the European Central Bank. At the same climate protection, digitalisation, research and education in the EU. To time, we welcome the debate within the ECB about its new monetary do this, we want to consolidate the newly created recovery instrument policy strategy. The climate crisis is having massive repercussions on and convert it into a permanent investment and stabilisation instru- our national economies; therefore it is sensible for all monetary policy ment under the control of the European Parliament. The EU would use measures to take into consideration the impact of the climate crisis it to invest in important future areas and it could also have a stabilising on monetary and financial stability. In addition, the ECB has the task of effect during crises. At the same time, we will strengthen the EU budget supporting the EU‘s general economic policy. How it strengthens the by providing it with its own revenue. The EU should receive the reve- European Green Deal with its ecological and social goals as the EU‘s

nue from the CO2 border adjustment. The taxing of plastic and digital guiding strategy in economic policy is its own independent decision. corporations and, if possible, financial transactions should also strength the EU budget. Together with our European partners, we want to reform Making the euro a lead currency the Stability and Growth Pact to prevent excessive pressure for cuts and privatisation and allow future investments to be further increased in all We want the euro to develop into a credible, international lead cur- member states. Essential public services, good healthcare provision and rency so that Europe preserves and expands its sovereignty. In the education must be reinforced in all European member states. long term, a stronger and more stable euro should find its place in a cooperative global world currency system. The euro is an essential Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter Completing the monetary union and establishing component of a comprehensive strategy that reinforces and asserts a crisis-proof Europe European values at the global level. We will create safe European assets for the world to save in. The euro should become the inter- It was a mistake that the conservatives prevented Europe from having national means of payment in future markets such as investments its own fiscal policy for decades. We want to ensure that the EU obtains in climate protection. However, strengthening the international role an instrument for its own permanent fiscal policy in the form of a sus- of the euro also requires intra-European solidarity: we want to work tainable investment fund. The fund will provide stability in the event of together to reduce disparities in surplus and deficit countries and a crisis and invest in European public assets such as climate, research, make decisions on economic and fiscal policy as a community. digital infrastructure, railways and education. It must be designed so that it cannot be blocked by individual countries in a crisis and to guarantee strong monitoring by the European Parliament. The Euro- We will budget soundly, far-sightedly and fairly pean Stability Mechanism will be further developed into a European monetary fund. This will enable countries to obtain a short-term cre- Federal budgets fit for the future dit line without conditions. In this way, speculation against individual states will be averted in advance. The banking union will be com- We want to make the federal budget more sustainable, fairer and more pleted with a joint deposit guarantee scheme as extra insurance so transparent. It will become more sustainable when we finally end the that every euro is equally safe everywhere. We will take the pressure environmentally damaging subsidies. The country‘s public finances off the Central Bank by means of a joint, strong countercyclical fiscal are still subsidising climate-damaging behaviour by over EUR 50 bil- policy and ensure that it does not have to put out future fires on its lion. We will gradually remove these subsidies and make the federal

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budget climate-friendly. As a first step, this will enable us to raise over among the last countries in the EU in terms of high-speed internet. We EUR 15 billion annually that we can use to fund climate protection are investing too little in our country. These are debts that are not on and social justice. We are aiming for a climate and biodiversity quota the books, but which endanger our prosperity. We want to update the for federal spending that should increase incrementally. We will rely debt brake in the Basic Law for the federal government and the states on green bonds for financing this sustainable expenditure. Gender so that the sustainability of the future interest burden is guaranteed budgeting will enable us to achieve consistent consideration and and, at the same time, to enable the investments that are so urgently involvement of equality aspects in decisions on fiscal and budgetary needed. The current strict regulations will remain in place for consump- policy. This will make the budget fairer. By designing the federal bud- tion expenses; for investments that create new public assets, we will get according to the principles of double-entry bookkeeping, we will allow limited borrowing equal to the net investment. In this way, we make it more transparent and provide more intergenerational fair- will create public assets that belong to all of us, as the return on public ness. We want to gradually remodel our tax system so that environ- investments is high, while the federal government does not pay any mental impact and resource consumption are more heavily taxed and, interest on its loans. in exchange, taxes and levies on work are reduced or the revenues are given back as a carbon fee and dividend, for example. Creating fairer taxation

Careful handling of tax money Taxes are the basis for the funding of our community and the key lever for fairness. We want to make it fairer and more transparent for citizens. In recent years, a large amount of federal budget money has been In view of the coronavirus crisis, the situation in the public budgets will wasted. The passenger car toll was a predictable disaster. The Ministry be very strained in the coming years. Therefore, all changes in tax law Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter of Defence sank millions into expensive consulting contracts. Poorly must be revenue-neutral at least. The goal is for everyone to make a fair structured public-private partnerships have proved to be lucrative for contribution. However, today those on the top 10 percent of incomes private companies and expensive for taxpayers. We will handle tax- contribute relatively less via taxes and levies than those on medium payers‘ money carefully. This and removing superfluous expense items incomes. We will change this by increasing the basic tax-free allowance takes priority for us before borrowing and revenue increases. We will for income tax to reduce the burden on those on small and medium establish transparency in the future and publish all PPP contracts. We incomes. On the other hand, we want to raise the top tax rate modera- basically only want PPPs to be allowed to come into consideration if tely. Starting from an income of EUR 100,000 for single people and EUR they result in added value or reduced costs for taxpayers, reliably and 200,000 for couples, a new tier will be introduced with a tax rate of 45 in the long term. We want to legally exclude PPP projects from the percent. Starting from an income of EUR 250,000 or 500,000 respecti- transport sector. The control of construction projects and major public vely, a further tier will follow with a top tax rate of 48 percent. In addi- procurements will be improved. We reject any further privatisation tion, high management salaries above EUR 500,000 will no longer be of publicly-owned companies in the area of statutory public services. deductible as operating expenditure. Capital gains will be taxed at the individual tax rate while maintaining the saver‘s tax allowance. Banks Reforming the debt brake and introducing investment rules and other financial institutions will continue to withhold capital gains tax which represents an advance payment of personal income tax. For Germany has viable public finances, even after the coronavirus crisis. income that is already taxed at the company level, such as dividends, the Interest rates are historically low and confidence in German govern- partial income rule will again apply in general, which partially exempts ment bonds is high. However, we have a problem for the future. The capital gains from taxation at the investor level. We will thus markedly Earth is heating up, schools are falling into ruin, and Germany ranks reduce the burden on small investors in shares and come closer to

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the ideal of financial neutrality in the tax system. We will abolish the similar to that in the USA, in order to prevent purely tax-motivated tax exemption applicable up to now after a ten-year period for capital changes of residence. We will have the tax gap assessed regularly. gains on land and property. We will also abolish the tax exemption for The tax authorities need to be significantly reinforced. To rectify the other capital gains, for example with regard to trade in precious metals, lack of enforcement in combatting tax avoidance by major corporati- commodities and crypto assets. We will reduce the burden on those on ons and wealthy citizens, we will create a special unit at the federal lower and medium incomes through the introduction of a guaranteed level. We will penalise tax evasion more heavily: the avoidance of real child allowance and through our carbon fee and dividend, among other estate transfer tax via share deals must finally be stopped. We will end things. If costs arise for employees due to mobile working, these must cum-ex and cum-cum deals wherever they are still possible and will be reimbursed by the employer or be tax deductible as income-related deal emphatically with the rigorous recovery of the resulting damage expenses. Wealth inequality in Germany has risen sharply and lies well via the states. over the EU average. This is due, among other things, to rich people being able to almost completely evade taxation of their assets through Taxing corporations appropriately tax planning, for instance in the case of inheritance tax. We want to remove these types of tax planning opportunities and tax large assets Using accounting tricks, large corporations shift their profits into tax more again. There are various instruments for this such as, for example, havens, out of Europe and also out of many poor countries. This is why inheritance tax or wealth tax. The introduction of a new wealth tax for billions are lacking for our infrastructure, and the firms gain unfair the states is our preferred instrument. The states should use the income competitive advantages over smaller companies. We are therefore from this tax to finance the growing educational requirements. The fighting for an internationally binding regulatory framework that sets wealth tax should apply to assets exceeding two million euros per per- minimum standards for the tax obligations of companies and states, Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Chapter son and amount to 1 percent annually. We will introduce tax incentives as well as the reinforcement of the UN Tax Committee. We want to for business assets to the extent that it is constitutionally lawful and ambitiously implement the international minimum tax rate for large economically necessary. In this process, we will aim for solutions that companies in Germany and Europe. Europe should not undercut the will create additional incentives for investment and take into account minimum tax rates in America. but rather fight for higher minimum the special role and responsibility of the medium-sized company seg- tax rates transatlantically. In addition, we need strong EU rules against ment and family enterprises. We will eliminate unjustified exceptions the misuse of letterbox companies for tax avoidance. We will also take in the area of sales tax, thereby ensuring more fairness here too with action at home: we want to ensure that corporations are required to regard to the financing of government tasks. publish their profits, turnover and tax payments extensively by state. In the EU, we will introduce a common tax base for company taxes Robust action against tax evasion and tax avoidanc and a minimum tax rate of 25 percent in the medium term, without exceptions. Google, Facebook and other similar companies will finally Every year, taxpayers lose billions due to tax evasion and aggressive be taxed appropriately with a digital corporate tax. We will examine tax avoidance. We want to introduce a comprehensive strategy to an excess profits tax for other sectors. We will ban banks and tax con- crack down on this. The EU-wide obligation to report on tax planning sultants from doing business in tax havens or acting as a broker in arrangements must be broadened to include a reporting obligation this respect. We will also advocate a move to majority voting in the EU for purely national planning arrangements. We will advocate at inter- with regard to tax issues. If European agreements are not successful, national level for a global alliance against tax evasion. In addition we will move forward with increased cooperation or together with to the existing tax liability based on residence, a tax liability based individual states. Nationally, we will take action against profit shifting on nationality will also be introduced for people with a high income, with stricter interest and licence barriers and with source taxes.

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mic must lead to a new promise of social security. We want to change the Chapter 3: social systems step by step in such a way that they give security and stability to all people, even in times of personal and social upheaval, and enable them to participate in society. Our libraries and playing fields, sports Securing solidarity clubs and music societies, theatres and youth centres – in short, our public and social places – should become the boldest and brightest spaces for coming together. The pandemic has shown us what makes a society strong – people stan- Happiness and opportunity should not depend on whether you live in ding together and trusting one another. It has made us realise how pre- the north or the south, the east or the west, the city or in the countryside; cious a sense of community is for our individual happiness, how much ensuring fair and equal living conditions is a founding principle of our we need other people and how great the danger is when a society drifts constitution. We will do everything possible to turn this often unfulfilled apart. This age-old but now newly experienced knowledge is a mandate aspiration into reality. People living in rural areas need just the same access for translating solidarity and protection into tangible and improved poli- to doctors, broadband and public services as city dwellers. And those who cies. We want to do everything possible to create the conditions for a good live in urban areas must be able to find good, affordable housing there too. life – from childhood onwards: guaranteeing material security, opportuni- Housing is the social issue of our time and for many people and families, ties and participation, and promising security for every life circumstance, even well into the middle classes, one that affects their very existence. a safety net that gets stronger as more support is needed. Civil liberties Our healthcare system should guarantee equal healthcare provision remain a privilege of the few if the social conditions for that security are for all, but there are some glaring gaps: health authorities have been cut to not guaranteed for all. Societies without existential need are better able breaking point, hospitals and hospital administrations lack staff, and those to withstand crises; mutually supportive and fair societies are stronger. that are there are being pushed to the limit. We want to reverse this trend The coronavirus has opened our eyes unflinchingly to the strengths and make preventative care a guiding principle: clinics should be finan- and weaknesses of our social state: how important it is to have a robust ced according to their social mission, the rural population needs access to

Chapter 3 Chapter healthcare system for all, how crucial it is to have economic strength that maternity care and emergency medical assistance. In healthcare, we are 3 Chapter brings social prosperity and thus a social state, and that protects people committed to better working conditions, more staff, security for people from becoming homeless if they lose their jobs or the economy collapses. who need care and for those who provide care for relatives or friends. At the same time, the pandemic has also aggravated existing inequalities. Digitalisation, global competition and the necessary restructuring of The poor are the first to fall ill. Women bear the brunt in key professions the economy will mean great changes for many people, accompanied by in the fields of healthcare, education and retail, but are much lower paid the fear of loss. But fear is a paralysing force that wears people down. and less well represented in decision-making processes. Freelancers and During a transition, people still need security. It is important to protect the self-employed, who already take greater risks, experience money pres- against risks and offer prospects, for example, through unemployment sures or find themselves struggling to survive financially if their earnings insurance and ongoing training and education. Strong social partners, fall away. Single or separated parents raising children or teenagers find strong trade unions and democratic co-determination can also contribute it especially hard to cope with the challenges of childcare, home schoo- to overcoming together the major challenges of the transition to a socio- ling and working from home. The pandemic has reflected back to us our ecological market economy. We will show that transformation and digita- individual life circumstances. The whole situation is exacerbated if you lisation with the aim of achieving climate-friendly prosperity create sustai- live in a small flat with no garden and the local swimming pool is closed. nable jobs with good working conditions and a fair distribution of labour. Loneliness increases. Now is the time to learn the right lessons. Our way out of the pande-

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deserves our support, as future opportunities should not depend on We support children, young people and families social background. That is why we will develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for preventing and combating child poverty. In Focus on children addition to excellent infrastructure, we will support families with a fair and simple child and family allowance: the guaranteed child all- Children must be able to develop freely and in the best possible way. owance. Our plan: to combine child benefit, child allowances, child As part of this, they have a right to special protection, support and supplements, income support for children and the requirements for participation. Children are people with their own needs, who must be education and participation in a new, independent benefit. With the recognised and empowered. We will ensure that the rights and well- guaranteed child allowance, every child will get a fixed, guaranteed being of children are given more weight and taken into greater con- sum, while children in families with low or no income will get an sideration in government decisions. For that reason, strong children‘s additional “guarantee plus” amount. The lower the family income, the rights must be enshrined in the constitution in line with the basic higher the guarantee plus allowance. After a one-off application when principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. We will the child is born, the amount of guaranteed child allowance will be introduce a National Action Plan for Children and Young People‘s Par- calculated automatically and paid by the Family Benefits Office. This ticipation with the aim of ensuring that all children and young people guarantees that every child receives the guaranteed child allowance are informed about their rights and can experience age-appropriate and step by step we can put an end to child poverty. It is a fair system, and easily accessible participation, regardless of their socio-cultural as children who need more will get more. Alongside the guaranteed background or their residency status. Youth work plays a key role here, child allowance, we will recalculate what children need to live. which is why we want to strengthen youth organisations by giving them the right to take collective legal action against local authori- Dedicated welfare services for all children and young people ties. Democracy cannot be an abstract concept, but instead must be able to be experienced and tested in everyday life. Future democrats Whether it is nursery, day care, after-school care, family counselling,

Chapter 3 Chapter need participation and media skills as well as political education, for educational support or youth work services – the public and indepen- 3 Chapter which we will provide conceptual and financial support in nurseries, dent providers of child and youth welfare services support families schools and youth welfare services on a cross-sectoral basis. We also with raising their children. Social workers and educational support want to reinforce the independence of the Federal Agency for Civic staff do a fantastic job despite the time pressures and the high work- Education. In all activities in the social sphere, and all construction load. Through statutory provisions for personnel planning, we want and residential measures that affect children and young people, we to ensure better resources for youth welfare offices and to ease the will involve them, safeguard their welfare and take this into account burden on qualified staff. We want to establish binding quality stan- in the Building Code and the Federal Immission Control Act. dards across the board in child and youth welfare and develop these further in collaboration with organisations, service providers and A guaranteed child allowance against child poverty academics. Benefit entitlements for children and young people with physical and mental disabilities have in the past been governed by a In a rich country like Germany, no child should grow up in poverty – separate social code for people with disabilities. A Federal Inclusion yet especially in single-parent families, those on low incomes with Law should ensure that all services provided for child and youth wel- children, or families with more than two children, the money often fare are in future designed such that they are also aimed specifically simply does not go far enough. Child poverty also means exclusion, at children and young people with disabilities and their families. The discrimination and inferior educational opportunities. Every child existing legal entitlements will continue to apply to them. We want

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to speed up our progress along this path towards an inclusive Social will get a digital end device for school where necessary. We also want to Code VIII. To that end we will support those federal states and local tackle the potential for addiction and the health risks associated with authorities that already, even before the implementation of the Fede- excessive use of digital applications. Children and young people need ral Inclusion Law, want to combine all children under the umbrella of particular protection online from crimes such as hate speech, cyber youth welfare, by providing them with a federal model programme. grooming and sexual abuse. We want to put an end to cyber bullying. To This will help us gain valuable insights for the nationwide restruc- that end we are focussed on creating a prevention strategy with obli- turing process. We want to abolish the cost contribution of young gatory and secure default settings for platforms and age-appropriate people in a residential establishment or foster home. sources of information and complaints mechanisms that are easy to find and use. The Federal Agency for Child and Youth Media Protection Self-efficacy and co-determination – reinforcing youth as an in- should be boosted in terms of its expertise. We will protect children dependent phase of life from the commercial collection of their data by private providers.

Teenagers and young adults must be able to develop freely and with Protecting children from abuse self determination. Responsible, self-confident and mature young people should be involved in the decisions about all the situations that For many children and young people, mental, physical and sexual affect them and have safe places for learning and leisure that they abuse and neglect are a painful part of everyday life. We are taking a themselves help to shape. To enable young people to effectively con- hard stand against this – with stronger prevention, more consistent tribute and lay claim to their ideas and rights, we want to strengthen action and prosecution as well as other measures for quality assu- low-threshold access to participation forums such as child and youth rance and child protection in the family courts. The main priority is parliaments, especially at local level. We will offer reliable support for to prevent these crimes. That requires clarification, qualification, age- youth work, youth organisation work and democratic education. We will appropriate prevention programmes and effective safety concepts as secure open child and youth work, youth social work, early childhood well as the cooperation of all those involved in settings where chil-

Chapter 3 Chapter intervention and all forms of support for child-raising together with dren and young people live and are looked after. Basic knowledge of 3 Chapter federal states and local authorities, and demand the long-term provi- children‘s rights, in particular participation, awareness and protection sion of facilities for young people. In an era of globalisation, policies in cases of sexual abuse or any threat to child welfare, should be part with and for young people need an international focus. That is why we of the curriculum for lawyers, healthcare professionals, teachers and will strengthen international encounters and exchange programmes. police officers. It is important to lay down clear legal requirements for the ongoing training of family judges and the qualifications requi- Participation and protection in the digital world red for children‘s legal representatives. All civil society and political levels and authorities must make the fight against child sexual abuse Many children and young people are growing up with tablets, smart- a central issue. Organisations that look after children have a special phones and other such devices – we must ensure that they grow up responsibility in this matter. We will create a statutory framework for in the digital world in a way that is safe, healthy and under their own the important work of the Independent Commissioner for Child Sexual control. We will reinforce digital education as a shared task for parents, Abuse Issues and thus give it permanent status, while also adequately educational establishments and youth welfare services with further anchoring the responsibilities of the Independent Inquiry into Child training for specialist staff and support services for parents. Everyone Sexual Abuse. We will build up a nationwide network of specialist should be able to acquire digital skills, which is only possible with the counselling centres and provide guaranteed funding for telephone relevant hardware and Internet connection: children who live in poverty and online support services.

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More time for families maintenance payments. After a separation, no extra financial strain should be placed on separated parents in looking after their chil- Being able to focus on family and children, even when they are ill; dren. This means that additional costs incurred for the proper exercise that is our goal. The issue of work-life balance is a responsibility for of contact and childcare services should be taken into account. For society as a whole, and one which we must tackle in collaboration separated parents on basic income support, we want to introduce an with business and public institutions. It should be straightforward for increased contact element. The support model should be oriented all parents to take parental leave. With the “KinderZeit Plus” scheme towards the welfare of the child in individual cases rather than being we want to extend parental allowances to 24 months: eight months schematically defined. Whether it‘s an important evening work mee- for each parent and a further eight months to be divided flexibly ting, a counselling session or a visit to the doctor – children cannot between them. If the KinderZeit Plus is applied to part-time work, and should not always be present. It is necessary to increase family the payment period is extended accordingly. It can be taken up to the support services, such as for additional childcare or household sup- child‘s 14th birthday, as sometimes even older children can some- port services. This is particularly important in the case of illness, when times be in need of more care and attention. The needs of families the children and the household must still be provided for. of children with disabilities should be given additional consideration. We will support parents in finding a balance between family and Assurance for all kinds of family work with a new working time culture and a flexible full-time working hours corridor, sharing family work and household chores in partner- Single-parent, patchwork, step or rainbow – families are diverse and ship and avoiding the traps of part-time work. Nobody should have to this diversity must be reflected in modern family law. This includes choose between child and job, education or study, which is why the modern and liberal naming rights. Social parents often take over entitlement to child sick pay should be increased to 15 days a year responsibility within the family and are important figures in a child‘s per child and per parent, with single parents entitled to 30 days. Since life. In the eyes of the law, however, they are still seen as having no many infections are picked up in the early years in particular, there parental responsibility for the child, even after years: in nurseries,

Chapter 3 Chapter should be an additional increased entitlement to child sick pay during school and medical practices, they are not permitted to take decisions 3 Chapter this time. We want to raise the age limit here to 14, with a medi- for their children. With the further development of “limited custody” to cal certificate only required from the fourth day of the child‘s illness. become a legal institution for parental co-responsibility, which - even For the special time immediately after the birth of a child, alongside before conception – can be transferred to up to two additional adults maternity leave, we want to establish a 14-day leave of absence for in addition to the biological parents upon application to the youth the second parent. The rules governing maternity leave should also welfare office, we will give all parties concerned more security and apply to a stillbirth after the 20th week of pregnancy. strengthen multi-parent families and social parenting. Two-mother families should no longer have to go through the process of adopting Additional support for single parents a stepchild, which is why we are striving to reform the law of descent so that the co-mother is automatically viewed as a second legal Single-parent families contribute so much and yet more than one parent in the same way as fathers in marriages between a man and a third of them are at risk of poverty. With the guaranteed child all- woman. The law of descent must also take into account the parenthood owance, we will help in a multitude of ways: the recalculation of the of non-binary people. All couples and single women who want to have minimum requirements of children and young people also brings an children should be able to have the cost of in vitro fertilisation reimbur- increase in the minimum amount of child support. And unlike today‘s sed. All children need a clear legal status; the rights of the individual child benefit, only half the amount should be offset against advanced to know their parentage must be granted to all children. Responsibility

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does not just apply to families with children. With the cohabitation Creating full employment agreement, we will create a new legal status, which extends legal protection to the cohabitation of two people who take responsibility We want to enable all people to participate in working life, as a good for each other, independent of marriaget. job is an important source of income, recognition and self-fulfilment. To that end, we must create good, secure jobs. We want to increase employment further and in so doing also prevent any lasting damage We will ensure good work and fair pay to the labour market in the wake of the coronavirus. With permanently higher public investment, more entrepreneurship and research Raising the minimum wage and innovation, we want to create an environment that brings many new jobs. The German labour market has been split in recent years, Work must be paid fairly. And people need good working conditions. with a skills shortage and clear wage increases for highly qualified But in our wealthy country, millions of people in the low-pay sector still personnel in some sectors, and precarious employment, involuntary work for poor wages and in unsafe employment conditions. Women and part-time work and stagnating real wages in others. We want to coun- people with an immigrant background are most often affected in this ter this with a socially equitable employment policy. In that way we respect. We want to change that. We will immediately raise the statutory will ensure good wages and cause the low pay sector to dry up in the minimum wage to EUR 12. After that, the minimum wage will need to medium term. Self-employed people need good framework conditi- rise further to provide effective protection against poverty and at least ons and better social security provision. We want to fight against the keep pace with trends in collective wage agreements. We want to reform structural causes of long-term unemployment. For people who are the Minimum Wage Commission and task it with this undertaking. We unemployed for a long time, we will create a permanent social labour will abolish the existing exceptions for under-18s and the long-term market that provides meaningful employment. unemployed. Temporary workers should get the same pay for the same work as permanent employees from the first day – plus a flexibility pre- Strengthening social partnerships, increasing the number of

Chapter 3 Chapter mium. Companies that pay fair wages should not suffer any competitive collective wage agreements 3 Chapter disadvantages. During the coronavirus pandemic, it has become even clearer that the short-time work allowance for employees on low pay Social partnerships, wage agreements and co-determination are cor- is too little. There is therefore the need for a minimum short-time work nerstones of the social market economy. They have made our country allowance across all sectors. Fixed-term employment contracts will no strong. Wherever they apply, they tend to bring decent wages and longer be allowed without objective grounds. We will use regulatory good working conditions. We want to make sure that collective wage policy to combat the frequent misuse of work contracts and the abdi- agreements and strong co-determination once more apply to more cation of corporate responsibility by means of subcontractor chains. We rather than ever fewer employees and companies. In line with Euro- want to strengthen safety at work so that it provides effective protection pean law, public procurement should favour those companies that from stress, burnout and the blurring of work boundaries. Bullying and are bound by collective wage agreements, or at least pay negotia- discrimination in the workplace are something we take seriously. We ted wages. To that end we intend to bring in a law governing com- want to provide better protection against such behaviour through clear pliance with collective wage agreements. We also want to make it sanctions and by the mandatory setting up of contact points. easier to make collective wage agreements generally binding, so that they apply to all players in a particular sector. Companies should not be able to benefit from abandoning collective wage agreements. We want to oblige companies to disclose whether they have signed up to

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collective wage agreements. Where companies are restructured, the More leeway around working times previous collective wage regulations should apply until a new collective wage agreement has been signed. There should in future be parity Whether in offices, in a care setting or on the assembly line – many co-determination in companies with more than 1,000 employees and people have experienced an increase in the physical or mental pres- we want to introduce an arbitration process for decisions that have sure of their work. At the same time, having time – for oneself or a particularly big impact on employees. Works councils that stand up one‘s family – is becoming more valuable for many people. Shorter for their employees also need more protection themselves. The same working hours, for example as proposed by IG Metall as a way of applies to employees who want to set up a works council for the managing the structural shift in the automotive sector, are somet- first time. We want to expand and modernise the co-determination hing we welcome, as they offer the opportunity to distribute work rights for works councils, staff councils and also youth and education more fairly, secure jobs and lighten the load for some employees. We representatives in relation to issues such as personnel development, want to support employees in sectors where the workload is especi- training and education, relocation overseas, support for women, pro- ally high by ensuring they have better working conditions. Further- motion of diversity and improving the carbon footprints of companies. more, the options for all employees to determine their own working A stronger financial involvement of employees in companies, in addi- hours with more flexibility – to make it easier to combine family tion to wages and salaries, can lead to more active participation. The and work and to have time for themselves – should be improved. transformation of the world of work as a result of digitalisation and To that end we want to transform fixed full-time work, perhaps by ecological transformation must be shaped in collaboration with the means of a flexible working time corridor, and in particular to sup- employees of the company. port social partners to enable the development of flexible working time models for the benefit of employees. We reject any attempts More autonomy at work, exploitation of digital opportunities to weaken the Working Hours Act to the detriment of employees. The working hours should be documented in future, as ruled by the We want to support employees in work making their work fit in better European Court of Justice. We support better monitoring of existing

Chapter 3 Chapter with their family and personal life. For us, a modern world of work regulations in order to support employees whose actual working 3 Chapter also means having a greater say about the place, location and scope hours regularly exceed 40 hour. of the work. In the coronavirus crisis, working from home became widespread. For many people this led to greater independence and Employment insurance increases opportunities less stress, for example, by cutting out the daily commute. For others, however, it was a real endurance test due to the lack of work space, We want to orient labour market policy towards the future and turn occupational safety and colleagues, or if they were no longer able to unemployment insurance into employment insurance. Key features separate working hours from family time. The option of autonomy at here include a legal right to training and education and the streng- work is one we want to keep and strengthen by introducing the right thening of vocational qualifications. In a world in which frequent to mobile working – keeping operational possibilities in mind, but changes of job are the norm for many people and people no longer also providing strict safety criteria and ensuring interests are properly automatically work at the same company for 40 years, everyone needs represented. Mobile working can take place in a home office or in a places to go for help and support so they can shape their working nearby co-working space, but the move must always take place volun- life with a degree of autonomy. Wherever there is an employment tarily and with the right to return, as well as being associated with agency, educational agencies should become key points of contact sufficient time at a company workplace. providing support for people through the career change process. This would simplify the process of providing further training advice and

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funding. The promotion of lifelong learning for people with disabi- use clear minimum standards for employment and data protection lities is another area we want to expand. We want to make access and for general terms and conditions, with strong data protection for to employment insurance much easier and introduce an entitlement workers and a digital right of access for trade unions to ensure fair to unemployment benefit after just four months of any employment play in the platform economy and in the digital world of work overall. subject to social security contributions. Self-employment must also have better social security provision. To that end, we will simplify Fair working conditions for workers the access to voluntary unemployment insurance and make access from European neighbour states possible for all self-employed people, including a choice between two tariffs. Self-employed people should, alongside the entitlement Being able to work in any European neighbour state is one of the to unemployment benefit I, also be entitled to a short-time work great achievements of our united Europe. While this has brought allowance in special emergency situations, such as during a pande- a great deal of freedom for those in highly qualified professions, mic. We want to provide better support for start-ups in periods of in many service areas it has led to an exploitative working reality. unemployment and offer those job entrants who have been knocked Grievances in Germany‘s abattoirs have highlighted this issue. But back by the crisis a bridge into the labour market by giving them an exploitative conditions also often prevail in other sectors, such as introductory allowance. construction and healthcare. We want all workers – however long they work here – to be just as well paid and insured as their German Better protection for work arranged online colleagues. That requires an effective crackdown on illegal work and bogus self-employment, a right for trade unions to take collective From tradespeople to software developers and cleaners – more and legal action, a European social security number, higher minimum more services are arranged via online platforms (gig working) or standards of accommodation for posted workers, the eradication of even take place in the cloud independent of location (crowdwork). short-term employment with no social security liability, better regu- The digitalisation of activities and digital placement of work both lation of employment agencies and more control via a strengthened

Chapter 3 Chapter hold many new opportunities. But employment law and occupational European Labour Authority. Employees from other EU states must be 3 Chapter safety must be adapted to the online world to prevent the emergence better informed of their rights and we will act at European level to of new forms of exploitation and dependence. We want to regulate ensure better social security provision for EU citizens seeking work. work that is done or arranged online in order to guarantee people working in that environment the same protection as those working in analogue form. We want to prevent bogus self-employment by We will achieve gender equality providing more legal and planning security around the demarcation between self-employed work and dependent employment. If the con- Same pay for equivalent work tractor claims to have employee status, in future the employer must prove that is not the case. Unfair price dumping must be eradicated Same pay for equivalent work - we are still a long way off making this by introducing a minimum fee for time-based services. Employee- self-evident concept a reality. On average, over their entire working life, like and solo self-employed workers should in future find it easier women earn only about half as much as men, especially if they care for to organise themselves in terms of collective wage agreements, children or dependants. This is also evident in their inadequate old age and individual sectors should be able to agree binding minimum pension provision. That is why we will advocate at European level for fee limits that can also be declared generally binding. Platform ope- an ambitious EU directive for equal pay and nationally, we will intro- rators bear a responsibility towards their contractors. We want to duce an effective equal pay act that also applies to small businesses

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and obliges companies to report the pay of women and men and the that parents are not disadvantaged in the world of work due to the measures taken to close their own pay gap. This law must also contain fact that they have children, we will take the necessary measures, an effective right to take collective legal action, so that where there are including any changes to the law that this might entail. structural disadvantages, organisations can take on the litigation and those affected do not have to deal with it on their own. Pay checking Equality in taxation procedures can reveal discrimination. For that reason we will oblige social partners and companies to check all pay structures for discrimi- The German tax laws are still stuck in the last century. While many nation and make the range of their pay and fee structure accessible to couples divide up family work and gainful employment more equally employees in anonymised form. We will work to ensure that jobs done than was the case many years ago, taxation is still based on the model primarily by women are valued more highly than they have been up to of a male breadwinner and a wife who at most earns a small amount now, especially in the form of better working conditions and better pay. extra and is primarily takes care of the household and children. This Achieving a good work-life balance must be made easier for all. model is unfair because it favours married couples, leaves out single- parent families and unmarried couples, limits the participation of Strengthening the economic independence of women women in the labour market and at the same time does not truly give women full security. In crises, it is women who are most heavily Economic independence is an indispensable factor in being able to disadvantaged, for example, through lower short-time working all- live a self-determined life. Any hindrances to this must therefore be owances or unemployment benefits. Together with mini-jobs and free removed. Women continue to take on the majority of care work, which co-insurance, these measures have a negative effect on the participa- is of systemic importance to our society. We want to ensure indepen- tion of women in the labour market. We therefore want to introduce dent security in all phases of life – from the choice of career through individual taxation with a transferable tax-free allowance for newly to pensions. With the exception of students, school pupils and pen- married couples. In the case of income tax, the second earner, who sioners, we want to make mini-jobs subject to social security contri- currently bears an undue tax burden, will have this burden relieved by

Chapter 3 Chapter butions and regulate household-related services. The limited choice making the so-called “work-factor method” the rule and scrapping tax 3 Chapter of career brought about by narrow role expectations is something class 5 for second earners. In this way we will ensure that equal life we want to tackle through gender-sensitive careers advice. We want plans are no longer disadvantaged. Couples who are already married to break the glass ceiling that hinders women‘s career advancement. can decide whether they want to be assessed individually or continue This can be done through a clever time policy that also makes it to split their taxation. At the same time we will strengthen families easier for partners to take on responsibility within the family and for with the guaranteed child allowance. Single parents, who are cur- work to be divided fairly between the genders. We want caring within rently the hardest hit by poverty, will be supported with tax credits. the family to be carried out jointly and equally, and see this as being a prerequisite for equal opportunities and gender equality. To that end it is necessary that fathers, in particular, take equal responsibility and We will secure the social safety net provide equal care within the family. Single parents should not be disadvantaged in this respect compared to couples. We want to sup- Security guarantees instead of Hartz IV unemployment benefit port those affected by discrimination in the labour market, for example by introducing the right to take collective legal action, extending Everyone has the right to social participation, and to a worthwhile life the corresponding legal advice and ensuring a genuine right to return without fearing for their financial survival. We therefore want to move to full-time work which also applies to smaller businesses. To ensure on from Hartz IV unemployment benefit and replace it with a security

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guarantee. This protects from poverty and guarantees, without sancti- principle of self-determination, we want to promote inclusion and ons, the socio-cultural subsistence minimum. It thus strengthens peo- accompany its mandatory implementation with a Study Commission. ple in times of change and, in light of major changes to the world Services to promote participation must be ensured in every phase of of work, can offer security and open up opportunities and prospects general, vocational and higher education. We want to create an inclu- for a self-determined life. The green security guarantee is basic social sive labour market and to that end, provide better support for emp- security that carries no stigma and is awarded simply and on an equal loyers who employ people with disabilities. We will strengthen and footing. The socio-cultural subsistence minimum will be recalculated safeguard the self-representation structures. Conversely, employers and the current cuts ended. In an initial step, we will increase the stan- who do not employ sufficient people with severe disabilities should dard rate by at least EUR 50, which will make a noticeable difference. pay a higher compensation levy, which we will invest in the promotion We will personalise the benefits of the security guarantee on a step by of inclusive employment. We want to develop the current workshop step basis. We will devise more attractive models of income allowances system into a system of inclusive companies, in which people with so that additional economic activity always leads to a tangibly higher disabilities are enabled to get employment subject to social security income. Young people in families on benefits should be able to earn contributions, at least at minimum wage level, by using needs-appro- money without tax deductions. In future we want to assess wealth in a priate ways of compensating for disadvantages. We will guarantee less bureaucratic way using a simple self-declaration. The limit on pro- worker‘s rights and promote the change in the general labour mar- tected assets will be raised. We will strive to gradually further simplify ket. We want to involve day centres in this process. We will expand social security by amalgamating social security benefits that guarantee the Budget for Work and provide security for people using it through subsistence and integrating their payment into the tax system. We wel- unemployment insurance. Trainees and students with disabilities will come and support model projects to research the effects of an uncon- get a grant for overseas stays to cover their needs corresponding to ditional basic income. By eliminating the bureaucratic and degrading the benefits they get in this country. It is our aim to further develop sanctions, the security guarantee will free up time and space in job cen- the Federal Participation Act and to guarantee participation – no poo- tres so that they can focus on genuine job placement and support. We ling of benefits against the will of those affected, a genuine right to

Chapter 3 Chapter need a change of perspective when it comes to promoting employment, individual wishes and choice, benefits independent of the income and 3 Chapter with sufficient personnel to do justice to the diversity of long-term assets of those entitled to the benefits, and a federal participation all- unemployed people. What is needed is intensive support and individual owance. Applications for participation benefits should be simple and attention. Instead of a preference for placements in precarious jobs, we non-bureaucratic and decisions should be made quickly in the case of want to see priority given to training and qualifications. It is vital to people with disabilities. ensure social participation through a permanent social and inclusive labour market, which is set up to have a low threshold for access and Common minimum social standards in the EU to be needs-oriented, and from which the long-term unemployed can benefit in many different ways due to good support. We call for a European Union that guarantees social security and minimum standards across the EU. Social rights must be accorded Self-determination and equal participation the same value as the economic freedoms of the internal market. To for people with disabilities that end, common European work and social standards are essential. We will campaign for a European basic income directive which esta- People with disabilities have the right to equal participation and blishes minimum social standards for each country, adapted to the protection from discrimination in all areas of society. Based on the economic situation in each case. Country-specific minimum wages UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the across the EU should ensure that people can live from their work. The

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European short-time work scheme introduced during the coronavirus after many years of employment. We will keep the retirement age at crisis is something we want to perpetuate. In order to create stability 67. However, we want to make it easier for people to decide them- in the event of future crises, we are in favour of the introduction of selves when they wish to retire, even if this is beyond the statutory a European unemployment reinsurance scheme. We want to streng- retirement age. then European works councils and further secure co-determination in international companies through reinforced information rights and A citizens‘ pension fund tighter sanctions. It is our long-term goal that the social rights laid out in the European Charter of Fundamental Rights become enfor- The pay-as-you-go system would benefit from the addition of a capi- ceable as fundamental rights against member states in the European tal-based old age pension provision. The Riester pension has proved Court of Justice. to be a complete failure and the Rürup pension has serious weaknesses. The products are expensive and lack transparency and, in some Reliable old-age pension provision for all cases, have a lower rate of return than stuffing the money under the mattress. They are often only profitable for the insurance industry The long-term securing of the pension level at a minimum of 48 or due to public funding. For this reason, a significant proportion percent is a high priority for us. If this were to drop any further, of people have not signed up. We want to replace the Riester and more and more people would be dependent on the basic pension, Rürup pensions with a publicly administered citizens‘ fund. We want putting the general acceptance of statutory pensions at risk. In order to reform the publicly funded incentives for private pension provision to secure pension levels, we want to increase the participation of and focus on low and middle incomes. People with an existing Ries- women in the labour market, among other things by introducing the ter contract will be offered portfolio protection if they wish. The fund right to return to work full-time, to create a genuine Immigration will be able to provide long-term-oriented capital for the economy. Law and improve the employment situation of older employees. Tax Everyone who does not actively opt out will pay into the citizens‘ subsidies should be increased where necessary to limit the burdens fund. The ensuing volume will keep administration costs low, spread

Chapter 3 Chapter on those insured and employers. Precarious employment must be the risks widely and remove the need for expensive guarantees. The 3 Chapter tackled, as only poverty-resistant wages lead to an adequate pen- citizens‘ fund will be administered publicly and independently of sion. We want to gradually develop the statutory pension insurance political influence and will invest on the basis of ESG sustainability scheme into a citizen insurance scheme which will include all citi- criteria. It will invest in the long term and thus help counter the short- zens going forward so that everyone is well covered. As a first step term focus of the markets. In this way it offers the potential for good towards a citizen insurance scheme, we will ensure that self-emp- returns. Employers should in future offer a company pension, make loyed people with no mandatory insurance, such as in professio- their own financial contributions and be able to use the citizens‘ fund nal pension schemes, and members of parliament are obliged to as standard for this. In order to make it easier for small companies to be included in the statutory pension insurance scheme. This would offer a company pension, we want to introduce the contribution-only take existing private forms of pension provision and age limits into guarantee for small companies, remove their liability and thus ensure account. In order to prevent old age poverty, we will overhaul the a greater prevalence of company pensions. In addition, we want to basic pension and develop it into a genuine guaranteed pension give self-employed people comparable opportunities to generate an which includes far more people than before and puts them in a bet- adequate old age pension to those of company employees. ter financial situation. Furthermore, we will introduce a minimum contribution basis of assessment financed by employers, which will give low-income full-time workers an adequate pension in old age

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the development of new test procedures. Where there are insufficient We will place greater value incentives to develop treatments, such as in the case of antibiotics or antiviral drugs, we will create alternative incentive systems. The on health and healthcare production of drugs and medical products should also be expedited – in cooperation with Europe - while supplies, for example, of respira- Prevention as a guiding principle tory masks, should be guaranteed by having our own production sites. Given its important role in combating the pandemic, we will continue We want to guarantee access to good healthcare from childhood to strengthen university medicine – from cutting-edge research, data through to old age – but good health policy includes so much more networking and digitalisation to the provision of remote consultati- than this. Anyone who works in precarious conditions in the meat ons in rural areas. At a European level, there need to be more joint industry, is housed in a mouldy apartment or on a busy street, or lives strategies and coordination, perhaps through the joint planning and in poverty on Hartz IV unemployment benefit, is hard pushed to remain use of medical emergency capacities or through a European early healthy, has a higher probability of becoming ill and often has poorer warning system and the joint collection and use of relevant data. We access to healthcare. A healthy society needs a policy that is preven- therefore call for the rapid expansion of HERA, an EU body which tive, that fights the causes of illness, funds research into prevention should allow better coordination of state and private sector activities and acts with foresight. Instead of merely reacting to the next crisis, in future. We want to strengthen the European Centre for Disease more attention should be focused in future on the causes of illness Prevention and Control and strive to ensure closer cooperation with and the status of healthcare provision by means of common health national health authorities. goals and the expansion of health reporting. Prevention, health promotion and healthcare provision are three areas we want to pursue Strengthening health authorities fundamentally across the board in all political areas. It was already clear before the coronavirus pandemic that as a society,

Chapter 3 Chapter Preparation for pandemics we need to make more effort to strengthen public health and enable 3 Chapter people to lead a good life. Whether it is the mobile dentist visiting a The coronavirus crisis has shown that our healthcare system must school or vaccination campaigns in care homes – the promotion of be better prepared for future pandemics. That is why we are calling health in a way that is easy for all people to access requires a streng- for a comprehensive analysis of the way the pandemic was managed. thening of the public health service. It is our goal, working together Now is the time to introduce long overdue change, for example, by with the health services of individual states and local authorities, pub- reforming hospital and emergency care and driving forward digita- lic healthcare structures at universities and other higher education lisation as a matter of urgency, especially in the health authorities. institutions and a new Federal Institute for Health that will be set up, In order to combat future pandemics effectively and transparently, it to build up a strong pillar of public healthcare. The Federal Institute is necessary to define steps to contain pandemics in the Infectious should develop joint, long-term health goals, report on the functional Diseases Protection Act, to update pandemic protection plans and to capacity of the healthcare system, secure the quality and coordination set up an independent, interdisciplinary pandemic board. The measu- of healthcare services and, as a central public health organ, contri- res taken must be evidence-based and proportionate. A clear commu- bute to the improvement of healthcare provision by bundling toge- nication strategy should be employed to make the data foundations, ther existing federal structures. In the past, health authorities have decision-making rationale and methods transparent to all citizens. We been chronically underfunded and understaffed. Staff recruitment and will invest in health research; for example, in medicines, vaccines and technical equipment must be permanently improved. We therefore

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want the federal government and individual states to work together activities and be responsible for prescribing medicines and care pro- to ensure that the funding for the public health service is gradually ducts. Where there is established competence, we want direct access raised to at least 1 percent of health expenditure so that it can fulfil for therapists. The working conditions in and remuneration of thera- its remit to protect and promote health in the long term. We want to peutic professions must be urgently adjusted to reflect their key role integrate healthcare services more strongly into health promotion and in healthcare and the fees for training and education in these fields prevention in local communities. Employees in the public health ser- must be abolished. There must be regular options for training and vice, especially public health officers, must be paid a comparable salary education in therapeutic professions. to other healthcare roles. Nursing expertise should also be integrated more strongly – as so-called Community Health Nurses or in school Funding hospitals according to their social mission healthcare. In hospitals, everyone should get the care they require. Yet poor poli- Good healthcare provision in urban and rural areas tical strategies and the ensuing economic pressure have led to dis- incentives at the expense of patient welfare and to cost savings at Health is a public service. We want people across the country to have the expense of staff. A more binding state hospital planning policy is access to good and reliable healthcare. Many registered doctors, mid- required that defines the public care interests in terms of basic, spe- wives, therapists and other medical professionals work hard every cialist and maximum care provision. The federal government should day to provide that care. However, if in some places it is hard to find be able to define common nationwide principles for hospital plan- a midwife, paediatric wards have to turn patients away or doctor‘s ning. The services available in a particular area should not depend surgeries in rural areas have to close due to a lack of general prac- on what is profitable or what providers can afford, but must instead titioners, this puts healthcare at risk. We want to further strengthen be based on what is needed. Universal access to basic healthcare for the primary healthcare provided by general practitioners and other the entire population has its own value. The focus on the common healthcare professions. In order to guarantee provision in both urban good in healthcare should be strengthened and the trend towards

Chapter 3 Chapter and rural areas, we want to ensure overarching planning of outpatient privatisation reversed. The concentration on profitable services must 3 Chapter and inpatient services in future and the promotion of regional health- come to an end. In future, therefore, clinics should no longer only be care provision groups with close links to local authorities. Going for- financed based on case numbers, but also according to their social ward, there should be a common invoicing system for outpatient and mission. This requires a new financing system that contains a strong inpatient services. We would also remove the strict separation of the pillar of structural financing so that decisions are made according to EBM (statutory health insurance) and GOÄ (private health insurance) what is best for the patients and staff – and bureaucratic cost con- outpatient fee schedules. Standard dental care under the GKV (Statut- trols no longer run counter to this. Guidelines governing personnel ory Health Insurance system) must also be regularly updated in line allocation, treatment quality and care quality will ensure high-quality, with scientific advances. At the same time, we want to strengthen needs-based healthcare provision. We want to close the gap that has the interdisciplinary cooperation between the healthcare professions. been growing for years in public investment funding by sharing the This is because all healthcare must be viewed from the point of view funding between the federal government and individual states. Organ of the patient. To that end, we want to provide particular support donation saves lives. We want to continue to improve the structures for setting up regional public health centres in which all healthcare surrounding the organisation and quality of organ donation in clinics professionals work together as equals with shared responsibility. The and the transplant register. distribution of tasks in healthcare is an area we will reform such that non-physician healthcare and nursing professionals can take on more

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Reforming emergency healthcare pists. Community-based, person-centred care is required alongside improved, cross-sector collaboration. Here, the special features of The effectiveness of a healthcare system is often only really evident in care for children and young people, LGBTIQ, refugees and traumati- an emergency situation – at which point it is frequently serious. If Ger- sed people as well as women who have suffered abuse must be taken many‘s emergency healthcare is to function better, a few things need into account. Forced treatments must be reduced to the minimum to change. This starts with the ambulance service, who can nowa- absolutely essential. This requires systematic documentation and the days offer more comprehensive medical treatment in an emergency consistent orientation of the treatment services towards the patient. and therefore must be legally regulated in line with other health- Practical assistance must become more flexible between outpatient care provision. The emergency control centres for the numbers 112 and inpatient treatment and the various professional groups within a and 116117 must be organised under a single roof so that in case of team must be able to offer mutually agreed treatment. When it comes doubt, it does not matter where people call. they are always asked the to the inadequate reform of psychotherapy training, improvements same, standard emergency questions and then get the appropriate must be made, including ensuring that prospective psychotherapists assistance. We therefore want to combine these emergency control can finally benefit from good training conditions. centres into health control centres which provide a reliable guidance role around the clock. In emergency centres at central clinic locations, Improving maternity care, strengthening women‘s health there should be a seamless interlinking of the hitherto separate outpatient and inpatient care options for emergency care. Particularly at Good maternity care puts the focus on the welfare of the mother night and at weekends, these should be staffed in a way that means and child. To create the necessary cultural shift, midwives and other patients in less serious situations can also receive good outpatient players should hold a maternity summit to develop quality standards care. By providing dedicated budgets for emergency and intensive oriented to the health goal “Health around Birth”. This would include, care medicine and standard levels and guidelines for emergency alongside 1:1 care, the freedom to choose the place of birth, the gua- healthcare provision, we want to ensure that people in need, in both rantee of local care provision, raising awareness of abuse in maternity

Chapter 3 Chapter urban and rural areas, always get the reliable care they expect. care and establishing continuity of care before, during and after the 3 Chapter birth. In order to guarantee the security of care provision and rein- Improving care for mental illness force the profession of midwifery, there also needs to be a reform of the liability of healthcare professions, the inclusion of the flat rate for Strong prevention and appropriate care – we want to set the right on-call services in the catalogue of health benefits, easier acquisition course for both of these, as mental health is more than just the absence of subsequent academic qualifications for trained midwives and the of mental illness: it is fundamental to our quality of life, social par- expansion of midwife-led delivery rooms and birthing centres. There ticipation and physical health. It is not acceptable that many peo- should be no financial incentives for medically unnecessary Caesarian ple experiencing a mental crisis have to wait months for treatment. sections. We want to make the healthcare system gender-equitable. Anyone suffering from a mental illness needs rapid and easily accessi- Gender-specific aspects of research and training and in medical prac- ble help to prevent their condition from getting worse. Stigmatisation, tice are not accorded sufficient consideration, for example in drug for example in the workplace, must be prevented. Comprehensive and research. This threatens the health of women as well as of transgender needs-based care with outpatient and inpatient treatment, support and intersex people. Research into gender-specific drugs and care as and counselling services, including suicide prevention or in cases well as women‘s health must be guaranteed, translated into medical of addiction, is crucial. We want to create outpatient psychotherapy and healthcare practice and anchored in the training. Similarly, there places by increasing health insurance accreditations for psychothera- must be more targeted investment in the research and development

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of contraceptives for all genders. With the help of an equal quota of Moving towards a citizen insurance scheme for health and care women in leading positions in healthcare and through better working conditions, we will get more women onto the executive committees People with statutory health insurance wait longer for appointments of our health system. with specialist doctors and many privately insured people can no longer afford the high premiums. A few people benefit from this two- Ensuring access to the healthcare system, class medical system, to the disadvantage of many. Our goal is to esta- putting an end to discrimination blish a citizen insurance scheme financed on the basis of solidarity in which everyone receives the care they need, regardless of income. We The health system is another area where we want to fight discrimi- intend to lay the foundations for this in the next parliamentary term. nation. For example, people with disabilities often do not receive all With the citizen insurance scheme, we want to involve everyone in the the health services, assistance or home care that they urgently need, funding of an efficient insurance system and thus ensure that, even and are thus limited in terms of their participation. For that reason, against the background of future cost increases in the health service, we want to dismantle these obstacles across the board via an inter- we ensure the stable and solidarity-based sharing of the financial departmental inclusion plan, target healthcare services towards indi- burden. Civil servants, the self-employed, employees and members vidual needs and reduce bureaucratic processes as far as possible. of parliament will also make income-related contributions, with no This also includes mandatory specifications for accessibility in needs fictitious declarations of minimum income. The contributions should planning and a reform in the supply of medicines and medical devi- be levied on all types of income, for example, as well as wages and ces. The health system overall must be designed to be inclusive, inclu- salaries, also on capital income. We will improve the care of those ding in the training and education of its staff. For LGBTIQ people, too, with statutory health insurance – for example, by reimbursing the cost healthcare provision must be free of all discrimination. To that end we of glasses. We also want to end the disadvantages felt by civil ser- will enshrine in law the entitlement to medical measures for trans- vants with statutory health insurance through an eligible tariff and gender and intersex people. We will close the existing gaps in the ban provide better insurance for privately insured individuals who can

Chapter 3 Chapter on so-called “conversion therapies”. We want to put more emphasis only afford the basic tariff. For people with statutory health insurance 3 Chapter on educating doctors on issues around HIV and the latest treatment who owe contributions, we want to make it easier for them to return and prevention options in order to prevent stigmatisation. Access to in full to the health insurance scheme and we want to improve the healthcare provision must be guaranteed to people without health health insurance cover of low-earning, self-employed people so that insurance and the homeless, regardless of their residence status. This they are not financially overburdened by excessively high premiums. also applies to EU citizens who live in Germany without papers, perhaps through an anonymous health insurance certificate, by abolis- Strengthening patient rights hing the obligation to report and provide information to public authorities or by strengthening the advisory networks for people without For us, the needs of the patients and those in need of care and the papers. To ensure that language is never an insurmountable hurdle, benefits for them are key. Instead of being mere onlookers, they should we want to include the entitlement to qualified language mediation be participants in our health service. We therefore want to expand in Social Code V. We want to revoke the easier deportation of ill and the opportunities for representation of patients and health insurance traumatised refugees and make it possible once more to include psy- policyholders in health service bodies, especially through a specific chotherapeutic assessments in the process. impartial member on the Federal Joint Committee, more rights for involvement and information, and a reform of social elections. Pati- ents should have self-determination and an informed basis on which

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to make decisions, and be able to assert their rights promptly and assistance systems in the care sector. In order to guarantee security effectively if problems arise, for example against their health insu- and interoperability and thus, for example, to reduce the administra- rance fund. We want more quality transparency in the health service tive cost of medical and care staff, manufacturers of medical products and will aim to set up a foundation supported by patient and self- and software should offer open interfaces that are oriented towards help organisations, which will provide a reliable, non-profit new home international (interface) standards. for independent patient advice. We want to promote patient safety. Victims of medical negligence must find it easier to claim compen- Climate protection is health protection sation and comprehensive structures should be put in place to avoid such errors. The health service has particular significance in dealing with the climate crisis, for example due to the need to adapt to a changing Digitalisation to improve healthcare provision spectrum of illnesses and more extreme weather conditions such as heat waves. Already, it is mostly older people and those at risk of We want to exploit the opportunities of digitalisation – whether it‘s poverty who suffer more from such events, and allergies and other robotics to support care, remote consultations or electronic patient diseases such as skin conditions are also more prevalent in these files – to make the healthcare system fit for the future. Patients should groups. This is a challenge for the health service, which we want be able to use apps to gain secure access to digital vaccination cer- to confront through more prevention, better emergency healthcare tificates, health information such as their blood group, their medical provision and increased assistance for particularly vulnerable peo- history or their latest blood values. To coordinate all these plans, we ple such as those with chronic illness. We will also set up a special want to work with all users of the health service to devise a digita- fund to implement heat action plans. At the same time, the health

lisation strategy. In order to ensure that they bring genuine benefits service must also make a contribution to reducing CO2 emissions. to patients, electronic patient files must be developed further and For example, we will support investments in green hospitals and made easily accessible and comprehensible for all patients; a com- health centres. Environmental and climate protection should also be

Chapter 3 Chapter munication campaign should reach patients regardless of their social taken into greater consideration in the production of medicines and 3 Chapter circumstances or digital health literacy. As part of this, patient organi- become a quality criterion in health insurance contracts. The link sations should be more engaged in the process. Health data should be between climate protection and health can thus become a driver of anonymised and, where necessary, pseudonymised before being made the transformation towards greater sustainability. available to science in order to improve healthcare provision in Ger- many. No data will be passed on without the consent of the patient. Improving outpatient care Medical confidentiality and patient secrecy must also be safeguarded at all times when it comes to digital health data. Patients must have Anyone in need of care deserves the best possible care and support secure and accessible access to their own health data. A decentralised to be able to live an autonomous and dignified life. In an ageing research data infrastructure is required. The results that are obtained society it is even more necessary to have a range of nursing care ser- from disclosed health data should be made generally available in line vices across the country that are tailored to local demand and that with open data principles. All digital services funded by the solidarity- serve the individual needs and biographical backgrounds of those based association must be accessible and meet the highest standards in need of care. Instead of more large establishments, it is neces- of data protection and data security. We are calling for an indepen- sary to create more outpatient residential and care options, such as dent assessment of the benefits of digital healthcare applications. day, short-term and respite care or residential care communities – We will support the expansion of digital infrastructure and technical embedded in an environment which supports people in old age or

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in need of assistance and enables them to play an active role in the Improving working conditions in nursing care a social life of their community. In rural areas in particular, community nd healthcare provision health nurses can be a valuable support. Their presence also makes it easier to care for relatives. To that end, we want to create the legal Nursing care workers make an invaluable contribution to our society. framework conditions for local community nursing care and ena- People who require support in old age due to disability or illness quite ble local authorities to undertake binding care planning to design rightly want to be looked after by professional, caring staff. At present, appropriate care services in the local area. A federal programme it is too often the case that medical professionals have to work beyond should provide start-up funding for local authorities who wish to their limits. Understaffing, long hours, physical and mental overload go down this route. Long-term care insurance benefits should be are problems faced on a daily basis, and not just during the pande- needs-based, independent of the type of housing and available as a mic. Patients and staff alike suffer as a result. We want to improve personal budget. Caring for someone deserves our recognition and these working conditions. It is not just a question of more pay, work the support of society in general. For that reason, we want to pro- protection and recognition – but above all, more colleagues and more vide particular support for people who take on the responsibility of time. We want to use the mandatory, needs-based allocation of staff caring for relatives, neighbours or friends in the form of the “Pfle- – including in the long-term care sector – to secure a better work- geZeit Plus”. With this scheme, we will enable all working people to life balance, more independence for specialist staff, the elimination of receive an earnings replacement benefit for a three-month full with- unnecessary bureaucracy and the opportunity to introduce new wor- drawal from work and a three-year partial withdrawal from work. king time models, such as the 35-hour week in the care sector without This should provide a financial cushion for the reduction in working reducing salaries, creating working conditions which mean that many times as a result of providing care. people – new, existing or returning – are happy to work in the care sector. We want to limit the exceptions for the healthcare sector in the A double care guarantee Working Hours Act in order to prevent overload and stem the exit of staff in the medical and care sector. Increased psychosocial support

Chapter 3 Chapter People in need of nursing care and their relatives are increasingly for all healthcare professions must be provided for potentially trau- 3 Chapter having to spend more of their own money for their care. We want matic events. Appreciation must also be reflected in salaries – ideally people in need of nursing care to receive the care services they need via good collective wage agreements. We want to oblige social care without being threatened with poverty. With a double care guaran- insurance schemes only to work with providers who pay collectively tee, we want to quickly reduce the level of co-payments and cap it agreed wages. In order to increase the appeal of nursing care professi- permanently. In that way, we will ensure that individuals can relia- ons in the long term, we want to strengthen training, self-organisation, bly plan for the costs they need to cover themselves. The long-term opportunities to influence professional nursing care and its structures care insurance should then cover all the costs above this amount for at federal level, for example, via a Federal Nursing Chamber and above needs-based (outpatient and inpatient) care. With a long-term care all, by giving nursing care staff a stronger say in the Federal Joint citizen insurance scheme based on solidarity, we want to ensure that Committee and in other decision-making bodies. We want to provide everyone participates in funding the long-term care risk by making financial and structural support for the study of nursing sciences and income-related contributions. research into nursing care. We want to develop a legal framework for the work done by immigrant domestic staff and care workers, which defines the rights and obligations for both sides (domestic staff and care workers).

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Expanding palliative and hospice care, There should be no drug advertising. The current ban on cannabis regulating the right to die causes more problems than it solves. For that reason, we will undermine the black market and introduce a cannabis control act based on Dignity in life should also include dignity in death. Patients and their strict youth and consumer protection to regulate the sale of cannabis relatives must be given clear and detailed information about their in licensed retail outlets as well as introducing clear regulations on illness and the treatment options so that they can make decisions driving under the influence of drugs. We want to improve the supply they feel comfortable with. To that end we want to launch national of medical cannabis and support research in this field. information programmes covering living wills and powers of attorney. Needs-based palliative care for the seriously and terminally ill of all ages must be universally guaranteed. We will strengthen and expand We will create affordable housing inpatient hospices and specialist outpatient palliative care teams for adults and children. Ensuring self-determination through to the end A right to housing enshrined in the constitution of life includes the right to die. We are committed to ensuring that the federal parliament holds a free vote to regulate access to euthanasia All people require the adequate housing. Housing is a human right. in conjunction with the necessary protections in line with the deci- But it is becoming increasingly hard to find somewhere to live. And sion of the Federal Constitutional Court. in many places, rents and property prices are continuing to rise. Big cities are becoming increasingly divided into income districts, with In favour of a responsible drug and addiction policy city centres losing their vitality. Many cities need to be realigned towards a housing market focussed on the common good. It is there- We want to see a change in the drug policy which puts the focus on fore necessary to act in such a way that families, students, people with the health and protection of young people and the ability to take an disabilities, older people and those on low incomes do not get into autonomous attitude to risk. Green drug policy is based on the four difficulties but can instead live well and in safety. We want the right to

Chapter 3 Chapter pillars of prevention, assistance, harm reduction and regulation. The housing to be enshrined in the constitution. Estimates suggest there 3 Chapter current law on narcotics is in need of reform. There is no protection are currently around 700,000 homeless people in Germany, 40,000 for young people and consumers on the black market. Addicts need of whom live on the streets with no shelter. More and more of these help rather than prosecution. The regulation of drugs should be fun- are young people, women and families. In order to put an end to this damentally geared towards the actual health risks. We want to ena- state of affairs, we want to establish a national action programme for ble local authorities to carry out model projects and support them the prevention and management of homelessness. The Housing First in expanding target group-specific, low-threshold services for drug approach is a key element of this policy. It enables homeless people to users and addicts. These could include outreach work, drug checking, move into a flat without having to first “qualify” for assistance. Nobody substitution and diamorphine programmes (including in prisons and should be without shelter and permanent, decent accommodation. detention centres) and services for the homeless as well as better We also want to call a housing and rent summit which generates a referral to outpatient and inpatient treatments. We want to dismantle genuine dialogue on an equal footing between tenants‘ associations, obstacles to substitution programmes offered by doctors and outpati- the housing sector and federal, state and local authorities so that ent departments. We will also strengthen addiction prevention using together they can develop new, sustainable and social concepts. modern approaches and digital media, with the involvement of the target group, not only for drugs but also alcohol, prescription medica- tion and tobacco. We want to strengthen protections for non-smokers.

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Preventing crisis-driven homelessness therefore our goal to ensure fair and affordable rents and strong rights for tenants. A nationwide overall concept is required that ensures by We want to remove the burden on tenants and families as well as federal law that maximum rent limits can be imposed on housing cohabiting people in owner-occupier properties and prevent them stock and that the cap on rent is extended indefinitely and made much from losing their homes due to a crisis situation. The opportunity more effective. We will abolish unnecessary exceptions, for example to pay rent or mortgage instalments later should help to prevent for furnished properties. Regular rent rises should be limited to 2.5 the termination of contracts and evictions. It should not be possible percent a year within the rent index. To that end, we want to streng- to evict people onto the street. We want to expand free tenant and then and circulate the qualified rent index and ensure it is legally debt advisory services in local authorities. In the event of a crisis- watertight. The calculations should be based on rental contracts of related drop in income, a programme by the KfW Bank (the “Safe the last 20 years. We will endeavour to continue to reduce the moder- Housing Programme”) should ensure financial support for tenants nisation surcharge and limit it to a maximum of EUR 1.50 per square and borrowers. Tenants who are reliant on these rental payments metre so that energy-based renovations are possible where the costs should then get state-funded support. are offset by the energy savings going forward. Within such an overall concept, it should be possible under the BGB (German Civil Code) to New non-profit status for social housing make federal state regulations in regions with an overstretched housing market, providing they at least correspond to the specifications We want to create new housing – with a focus on housing that is of the overall concept. This must, of course, be constitutional. We will family-friendly, open to all and geared towards the social environ- abolish the ability to charge tenants a property tax. We will also proment and the common good. Instead, right now we are losing a vast mote space-saving living to make better use of the existing housing amount of social housing – around 100 units each day. Rather than stock. In this way, we want, for example, to make it easier for tenants cutting funding, we will therefore ensure a significant increase in to exchange properties together with their existing contracts. A con- the funding for social housing and make this a permanent change. version ban in the Building Code and the extending the protection of

Chapter 3 Chapter We will support local authorities in their efforts to strengthen and local environments are additional tools. To that end we will streng- 3 Chapter rebuild their existing housing associations and public benefit hou- then the purchase options of local authorities based on an earnings sing cooperatives. To this end, we will provide one million additional value that ensures affordable rents and prevent speculative value rental properties, guaranteed and permanent, by means of a new increases. Exorbitant rents must also be properly prosecuted in line non-profit status for social housing. Existing state-owned housing with § 5 of the Economic Criminal Law. Termination of a leasefor the stocks should no longer be sold to private investors, but should owner‘s own needs should also be restricted more clearly than today instead be surrendered at a reduced rate to local authorities and to actual owner occupation or that of the owner‘s close family in order permanently committed to use as social housing. In this way, we to prevent abuse. We will test to what extent it is possible to exclude want to increase the stock of social housing by one million in the such terminations in an overstretched housing market for groups that next ten years. We also want to enable local authorities to establish are at particular risk. In order to strengthen tenants‘ associations and more social housing in their development planning. promote an orientation to the common good on the housing market, we want to develop genuine co-determination rights and tools. Strong tenants, fair rents

Many people are spending an increasing proportion of their income on their housing, and many can no longer afford to pay their rent. It is

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Putting an end to property speculation and money laundering Making it easier to buy residential property in the housing market Many people dream of owning their own home, but exploding pro- Housing is a social right and the housing market should not be a place for perty prices in most regions of the country is making this increasingly speculative investors. All too often, property is used for money laundering hard to achieve. We want to make it easier to buy residential property purposes, and that must be stopped. We plan to introduce transparency – both new and existing. The principle of “whoever commissions the through a property register of owners, which also makes land register estate agent, pays the fees” should be introduced for property sales, information accessible free of charge for journalists, non-governmental in the same way as it already applies to estate agent commissions organisations and residents of the properties, and to ban cash property on rental properties. We will try to reduce commissions considerably purchases. We also want to end the abuse of so-called “share deals” for so that they don‘t lead to higher sale prices by the back door. To that tax avoidance purposes and will aim to introduce a pro rata taxation end, we want to reduce the additional costs of house purchases still on property ownership in the case of company sales. Capital gains from further, for example, by enabling federal states to increase the tax private property business must be taxed appropriately. Speculation on rate for land transfer tax on large housing companies, and to lower it building land should be outlawed. When a local authority finds itself in for those buying a property to live in. We want to promote lease-pur- dire need of housing, there should be an obligation on owners to build chase agreements for owner occupied residential property via federal on vacant plots instead of speculating on higher prices. We will also take states and local authorities, and we will also support the purchase and stronger action against the incorrect use and speculative vacancy of hou- modernisation of empty flats and buildings for affordable housing. We sing space. In addition, we want to open up the opportunity in the Buil- want to support participation in cooperatives and joint purchases by ding Code of a compensatory levy to be paid to local authorities. tenants, for example via apartment block syndicates and other joint projects, such as by providing non-bureaucratic, cheap credit or gua- Land for the common good rantees.

Chapter 3 Chapter Land is unlike other assets because it cannot be increased, while at the Promoting resource-efficient, recycling-oriented construction 3 Chapter same time being indispensable. Rising land prices lead to rising construction and housing costs, which in turn lead to displacement. In the case of We can only achieve our climate goals if we ensure a consistent shift undesirable developments, there is a particular obligation for the state to in the building industry towards more resource-efficient and sustai- intervene. We want to ensure that the state sector once again operates a nable construction. In future, every urban development and construc- strategic and fair land policy. The federal government should no longer tion plan must take into account the entire consumption of materials sell its own property to the highest bidder, but rather demand the crea- and energy for building, operating and later dismantling the property. tion of affordable and sustainable housing, and cultural and social esta- All building measures should require a lifecycle assessment, with the blishments designed to serve the common good. To that end, we want to renovation and extension of existing housing stock given priority over transform the Institute for Federal Real Estate into a not-for-profit land new buildings. The aim is to recycle or reuse all materials used. We will fund. The fund will strategically buy new plots and hand them over to therefore press for a change to the economic framework conditions, a developers with public service obligations. These plots should ideally building resource law and mandatory climate protection standards for be given as leasehold land to ensure the long-term provision of social all legal requirements, standards and building regulations as well as a housing. Where applicable, local authorities and local authority housing sustainable timber construction strategy, so that future buildings are associations should have the right of first refusal. The income of the fund built in a way that saves energy and resources and is non-toxic. The would not go into the budget but instead be used to purchase more land. state must act as a role model in this. We want to strengthen research

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into and the market launch of sustainable, climate-friendly building to invest in and shape the future. The aim is to use regional indica- materials. Wood is a valuable raw material, so we will focus on its tar- tors in the federal states to select certain regions to support and help geted and efficient use to make our houses more sustainable without reinforce the local authorities in these regions. With regional budgets, over-exploiting our forests. We will also promote the digitalisation of we will give citizens and key players in those regions the opportunity planning and construction. In order to plan, build and modernise buil- to develop and shape their own towns and villages. We want to for- dings with a focus on recycling, we will introduce a digital building mulate the necessary minimum standards for key supply areas such as materials passport with all the relevant information about the mate- health, mobility and broadband. An inclusive society based on solida- rials used – our buildings and construction waste landfill sites will rity needs places where people can come together, places that com- thus become sources of raw materials. The reduction of land usage for bat loneliness, places of social cohesion. These can be marketplaces housing developments plays a key role in the protection of nature and or family centres, youth clubs or skate parks, town libraries, cultural species. With the corresponding legal requirements and incentives, centres or open public spaces. We will work together with experts and we will ensure that priority is given to brownfield development and citizens to create a national strategy against loneliness. And we want space-saving construction. Plots that are no longer needed for resi- to launch a federal strategy of “places of cohesion” in conjunction with dential purposes will be rewilded. In future, housing will be built hig- local authorities and local initiatives. With federal facilities in East her rather than wider and traffic areas will be reduced. Plots that are Germany and the targeted positioning of new research institutes, we to be turned into residential areas must be offset by removing areas will create important momentum in economically underdeveloped of hard paving. In this way, we will create a circular land economy that regions. We also support the idea of establishing a “Future Centre for ultimately no longer requires a net land consumption. Furthermore, German Unity and European Transformation”. we will work to ensure that § 13 b of the Building Code is not extended beyond the year 2022. Solid funding for local authorities

Strong self-government by local authorities and resilience in the pro-

Chapter 3 Chapter We will invest in towns and villages vision of public services require solid financial backing. Many local 3 Chapter authorities cannot even manage to undertake the obligations already that people want to live in within their remit, such as repairing municipal roads or renovating school buildings. Even before the coronavirus they were in a weak Strengthening regional public services financial state or in debt and their scope for action is getting smaller all the time. This is felt directly by local people. If there is no spare For a good, self-determined life in all regions, we need equality of funding for so-called voluntary services such as the establishment living conditions. There are restrictions in many places, and they often and running of sports or cultural facilities, there is a knock-on effect vary from region to region: villages lack centres, local authorities see on community life in the local authorities and trust in the state. We their swimming pools close, and the internet is still far too slow in want to structure local authority finances in a way that is better and many places. It is our goal to see that individual development, demo- more crisis-proof. If the federal and state governments give local aut- cratic participation and social engagement are possible everywhere horities new remits, they must also provide the necessary funding. We across the country. We need good infrastructure and access to public will introduce fair support for existing local authority debts and local goods in local authorities. For that reason, we want to enshrine a new tax income losses due to the crisis in order to give even those local joint remit of “regional public service” in the constitution. Regions that authorities with large debts some kind of prospect. The local autho- are currently facing major supply problems should be able once more rities should be able to turn to the federal government for support

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with their debt management where necessary. We therefore want the invest in loft conversions and the modernisation of empty housing. 2021 and 2022 business tax losses to be completely absorbed by the This requires sufficient planners in local authorities and capacity in federal and state governments. We also want coverage of the costs the construction industries. We want to promote smaller businesses of accommodation and heating for people with tolerated stay status. such as specialist craft firms, social and cultural projects and clubs We want to enable more local authority investment, for example in through a commercial tenancy law and use the Federal Land Utili- climate protection, green transport, start-up infrastructure and cultu- sation Ordinance to preserve and reinvigorate central locations in ral facilities. To that end, and as a first step, access to funding should towns and cities. State-owned property should in future only be sold be made simpler and less bureaucratic and the obstacles to partici- to not-for-profit, public or other social providers. pation, especially for financially weaker local authorities, should be reduced. We want the federal and state governments to support local Living in the countryside, working digitally authorities with a joint competence agency for funding policy and investment, and to enable them to implement projects. In the medium Countryside and village life has a lot to offer. Entrepreneurs, fami- term, however, there is a need for a fundamental reorganisation of lies and freelancers – they all need fast, reliable internet for their local authority funding: away from more and more individual funding lives. Sufficiently fast broadband and mobile phone provision have programmes and towards a higher level of basic funding, so that deci- become essential public services. Every citizen must be able to assert sions can be made locally about what spending to prioritise. their rights in this respect quickly and without excessive bureaucracy. We will create conditions for young and old to come and stay. Redesigning city centres Via the Joint Task for the Improvement of Agricultural Structure and Coastal Protection, we will promote housing projects for all genera- City and town centres, which are popular destinations for spending tions, co-working, the activation of vacant properties and communal time and meeting people, play a huge role in our quality of life. They and cooperative types of housing. We will create incentives for the offer cultural exchanges and provide a platform for life in urban and revitalisation of old building stock instead of building new homes

Chapter 3 Chapter rural areas. With a good building culture, we want to make city and on greenfield sites, and support programmes and initiatives for reu- 3 Chapter town centres more liveable, more attractive and also safer for all sing vacant buildings, for example as co-working spaces, social and through new housing, commerce, education and culture. A smart city cultural facilities or re-establishing grocery stores in small com- development policy, sustainable transport concepts and an urban munities. We want to redevelop station buildings as community- construction emergency fund are the best prerequisites for ensuring oriented spaces that are attractive and inviting mobility hubs. In that retail and tradespeople also have a future there. We therefore this way we will connect the railways with the towns and villages. want to reorientate urban development funding: for more attractive We will support the state “Markttreff” (Market Meeting Point) pro- cities, more green spaces and expanses of water, so that city living grammes: when, for example, supermarkets redevelop their spaces is still possible even as our summers grow hotter. With additional to integrate a café, bank and post office services. Local authorities funding for smart city projects, we will support the development should get grants when they bring together public facilities, such as of independent digital platforms, which provide an opportunity a sports hall, library, playground, working space or cinema under the for owner-managed stationary retail outlets, in particular, to offer umbrella of a cultural centre. attractive services. In this way we will work to counter displacements and vacancies. One million new social housing apartments should be built in our cities in the next few years. With the “100,000 Dächer und Häuser” (100,000 Lofts and Homes) programme, we will

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Superfast broadband everywhere tion-friendly approach of “Age-friendly Cities and Communities” set out by the World Health Organisation – including for older people in For urban and rural living, mobile working, innovative businesses and urban and rural areas and in the digital sphere. We want to promote lessons, high-speed Internet is an essential prerequisite for social par- this with a programme in which community centres and hubs provide ticipation as well as equal living conditions, and in our view should be information about age-appropriate housing, options for further edu- classed as a public service. With fewer than two million active fibre cation, healthcare and social security as well as opportunities to get optic connections, however, Germany lags far behind in all European involved in the village or district. In order to improve participation and international comparisons. Yet fibre optics are the future. Our goal in the digital world too, we want to promote initiatives for practical is fast, cheap and reliable fibre-optic broadband (FTTB) in every home. training and application in the social environment and in the pla- We will ensure that the funding gets where it is most needed with no ces where older people come together, such as neighbourhood cen- unnecessary red tape. We will strengthen open access to existing fibre tres and libraries. Self-determination also means being sufficiently broadband and remove blockages to speed up the expansion. The com- mobile for one‘s own needs, independent of a private car. This means prehensive roll-out of fibre broadband should also be driven forward extending local public transport in cities and in the countryside and and secured in the long term within the framework of operator models. using intelligent networking and intelligent on-demand systems In order to enable people to get faster Internet access in the short such as dial-a-bus services. There is a need for comprehensive bar- term, we want to design a legal entitlement to a fast basic Internet ser- rier-free access to all types of public transport and the routes to local vice in such a way that it is non-bureaucratic and easy to enforce. With transport and local services should have enough places for people to minimum bandwidths oriented towards people‘s usage habits. In this rest and regain their strength. way we will ensure that any white spots are soon covered. We want to continue to ensure and consistently enforce net neutrality. And we will put an end to false bandwidth claims: if telecommunications companies do not provide the promised download speeds, there should be

Chapter 3 Chapter simple, flat-rate compensation and high fines. Where the expansion of 3 Chapter mobile phone networks is concerned, it is important to guarantee full coverage, regardless of which network you are using. Where providers do not enter into cooperative agreements to cover dead spots, local roaming must be arranged as required, naturally with the relevant compensation. In any future frequency auctions, the coverage requirements for the area must be adjusted to keep up with rising demand – especially along railways and roads.

Self-determination in old age, in urban and rural areas

We want to enable self-determination in old age too. We want to provide greater financial support for dismantling barriers in housing and the residential environment and thus enable older people to live independently in their familiar surroundings for longer. Social participation enables self-determination. We will pursue the genera-

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which can also affect cognitive and social development in children Chapter 4: and young people. Children and young people made particular sacri- fices during the pandemic – the restrictions on contacts impacts them in terms of their development opportunities more than adults. Enabling education We owe it to them to put them at the centre of politics at last. Equal life chances for all children means that we advocate joint and research learning and individual support for all children from the nursery (nursery and daycare) until they leave school. We want to overcome the social division between schools and nurseries, including through Education enables. Education gives children, young people and targeted investments by the federal government that are distribu- adults the opportunity to evolve right from the beginning and up ted locally. Because we want nurseries and schools that children to old age. To question the old and discover the new. Education and and young people, but equally childcare workers and teachers are inclusion create the foundations to be able to independently go happy to attend. Regardless of whether they are in the country or the our own way in life. There is endless potential to make this country city, whether in poorer or richer neigbourhoods. Childcare workers fairer, more modern and more crisis-proof in future-oriented educa- and teachers are always key workers: our appreciation should be tion policy, training and further education and in visionary research reflected in their work, their pay and equipment. Schools should be and smart science policy. This is why we need socially diverse and attractive places. For this, they not only need fast Internet and clean inclusive schools in which young people learn together for as long toilettes, but also up-to-date space concepts with enough room for as possible. Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) as well varied and inclusive learning methods. Multi-professional teams as traditional environmental education are the key to the necessary should offer children the best possible support with their different social transformation. It enables people to think and act in a sus- needs. For this they require good training and continuing education, tainable way, to shape and participate in a democratic and plural secure careers and a good wage. Cultural education has to become society and to understand the effects of their own actions on the a fundamental part of our educational system. As the course is set world. ESD enables people to actively participate in shaping an eco- from the beginning, it is there that the most resources should also logically compatible, economically efficient and socially equitable flow. We will significantly increase investments, especially in nur- society. series and at primary level, and also to eliminate the backlog of

Chapter 4 Chapter A good education system is essential for equal life chances and school building refurbishments. A simple application for funds by 4 Chapter cohesion in a diverse society. However, in Germany, a person‘s career the schools is required to support school students throughout Ger- still depends too much on their family, name or where they live, many without the bureaucratic hurdles of the federal government. instead of on their own capabilities. And the pandemic is exacer- Education is a right for every age and every path in life. A career bating the already too great social inequality: where children and cannot be planned on a drawing board; therefore our educational young people can expect little support from home, where access to paths have to remain flexible and open. The opportunity for mature laptops or tablets is lacking and no parent can help, they risk beco- students to take the higher education entrance qualification, start- ming permanently disconnected. The children and young people ing an apprenticeship in your mid-30s or the first ever degree in the who are most strongly affected by the crisis therefore need the most family – all this has to be possible and must not depend on whether support. However, the school closures also led to an educational there is financial support from home or not. Whether it is full-time gap overall across all age groups and students missed out on joint school or night school, or dual vocational education, further educa- learning, discussions and being together in the school playground, tion or a degree course it is all the same, whether you want to be a

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tradesperson in construction, an office employee, freelance or self- orientation for political action, as demonstrated by the climate crisis employed in your own business: we support diverse life paths and and the pandemic. However, at a time of information filter bubbles the corresponding educational pathways. We want to work against and conspiracy theories, scientific insights are openly being called the trend of a growing number of school students leaving school into question. What is required is an easily comprehensible and inter- without a qualification. disciplinary scientific dialogue that brings science and society closer Trainees and students are also suffering from the effects of the together - through participative formats and funding for scientific pandemic. Apprenticeships they thought were secure have been communication. cancelled and some students have never been inside a lecture thea- tre. Precisely because this is a decisive life phase of reorientation, we have a duty to create security and prospects. All students who We support good education right from the start have got into financial difficulties as a result of the pandemic should receive support in the form of emergency aid under the Federal Trai- A nursery place in a good nursery for every child ning Assistance Act. We do not consider student loans to be a suitable method of support due to the risk of debt. We want to guarantee No matter what part of Germany you are from and who your parents a good trainee position and good training for everyone seeking an are, all children need the opportunity to grow up securely and well. apprenticeship. Nurseries have a decisive role in this. As places for early education, Creativity, an enquiring spirit and the transformation of our edu- they create stability, arouse curiosity, impart the joy of being together cational and academic system are the basis to curb the major crises with children of the same age and support children as they grow – the climate crisis and pandemic. For innovations to benefit the up. The curiosity and love of discovery nurtured here lay the founda- general population, there must also be public infrastructure available tions for learning and acquiring skills. They are the first step in the for development. A good life will also be possible in future because educational system. Each individual child has their own needs and scientists, artists and researchers in companies, universities and non- requires individual support, and nurseries respond to these. We will university establishments are constantly, passionately working on ensure top quality in the facilities which we entrust our youngest to, new ideas and on answers to questions that we have not even asked with a federal quality law. This top quality also has to be reflected yet. However, they can only develop new types of vaccines or alter- in appropriate infrastructure. Children need exercise and sufficient native fuels, new economical concepts for prosperity or sustainable spaces to run around and play. The time that skilled workers have

Chapter 4 Chapter business models if they have a well-equipped research environment for children is decisive for the children to feel at ease and to be able 4 Chapter and can explore and try out new things with an uncertain outcome. to be individually supported. That is why we want to guarantee as They need optimal, reliable conditions for their work; we should a minimum standard that childcare workers and other educational reduce unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles. Academic cooperations staff take care of a maximum of four children under the age of three with European partners, especially between universities, contribute at the same time or nine children from the age of three. Inclusive significantly to the attractiveness and innovation dynamics of the facilities require a better childcare ratio depending on the support German academic system, which is why we want to give these stron- needs of the children.In addition, they need to have enough time for ger support. We want to connect up thinking on education, research preparation and follow-up, cooperation with families, networking in and innovation policy more to invigorate the European Research and the social environment and further training. We will back the skilled Higher Education Area and establish sources of future prosperity. workers in nurseries with expert consultation, supervision and mento- Science constantly reveals new horizons of thought and oppor- ring programmes, cooperation between learning venues and support tunities, thereby changing the course of things. It provides a central for professional development within the nursery system. We want to

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continue and strengthen the commitment of the federal government quality standards – with enough skilled workers in multi-professional to expanding places so that all children can get a place in a good, teams, inspiring spaces and school playgrounds, a healthy lunch and inclusive nursery. A childcare place makes participation in social and wide-ranging cooperation with associations, music schools and other working life possible for parents, especially single parents. The nur- players on site. We want to financially support these types of coope- sery place has to be appropriate for the living and working realities of ration. The youth welfare service is an important partner of schools parents. Options should also be available for shift and weekend work. in designing all-day provision as informal education is an essential part of all-day provision in addition to school learning. The guiding More skilled workers in nurseries, daycare centres and schools principle is integrated all-day concepts for comprehensive personal development. What is important is to enable all-day and good secon- The educational staff in nurseries, daycare centres and schools have dary school provision for all children, those with disabilities and those a high level of responsibility as they have a decisive influence on the without. We are committed to the physical activity target of the WHO life path of children during their very early years. However this respon- to reduce the physical inactivity of children, young people and adults sibility is not yet sufficiently reflected in the wages of these skilled by 15 percent by 2030. There should be at least one choice of exercise workers. Childcare workers, teachers and other educators need a good on offer every day in all-day provision. The entitlement to integra- wage and good working conditions for the important work they per- tion assistance by the youth welfare service has to be valid everyw- form in the educational system and in the youth welfare service. In here – via individual assistance or via a pool solution, both in all-day addition, we want to ensure fair pay for trainees, further development schools and in daycare centres. The working conditions and wages of opportunities and good working conditions with an effective skilled the integration assistants should reflect their demanding and respon- worker initiative; at the same time, no one should be prevented from sible occupation. No additional costs should arise for parents of chil- training to be a childcare worker due to tuition fees. To overcome dren and young people with disabilities. The implementation of this the shortage in educational staff and teachers in the long term with legal right will be an all-German feat. This has to be reflected in the well-qualified staff, we want to promote high-quality education for federal government‘s participation in the costs. To support all primary career changers with a federal and state programme and reinforce schools on their path to inclusive places for all-day education, we existing further training and qualification opportunities, while pro- will launch an accompanying programme for the promotion of an tecting common quality standards. integrated school development spanning all professions and thereby support coordination offices. In the long term, we want to expand

Chapter 4 Chapter The right to an all-day place for every primary school child and school social work and anchor this as a component of all-day provi- 4 Chapter good learning conditions at secondary schools sion across the board.

Schools should be strong places for education, encounters and ins- Corona-Rettungsschirm für Kinder und Jugendliche piration. For this, they need motivated skilled workers, well-equipped barrier-fee spaces and time. Time for learning and playing together, The pandemic has left deep marks, especially for children who already researching and discovering, shared cultural, social and democratic had it harder at home before. Summer camps and extra tutoring in the experiences, promotion of language and exercise, individual support core subjects alone will not be enough to overcome the effects of the and care. In this respect, all-day places at a primary school or day- crisis. We want to put children and young people centre stage. They care centre and good learning conditions at secondary schools are now need a helping hand, a listening ear and clear spaces to find their important. Our goal is to implement an individual legal entitlement way back to normal life. To address this, we will expand sports, outdoor for every primary school child to all-day education and care with activity and cultural offerings and increase advice and individual help

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for students as well as sharing knowledge about mental health and Bringing education up to date crises at schools. We will build a secure network of broad support with mentors, education guides, school social workers and psychologists to Education in the digital world is much more than knowledge transfer; better protect the mental health of our children and young people in it is the key to future skills. Digitalisation has changed our way of life, the long term. Any additional offering for crisis management should so our way of thinking about schools also has to change. Obviously, this promote the quality of nurseries, daycare centres and all-day schools also includes vocational schools and colleges. With teachers who place in the long term. skill orientation at the centre of learning, students who playfully, for example through game-based learning, and cooperatively access new Programme for schools in socially disadvantaged regions content and schools that are technically optimally set up for this. Here, and districts it is necessary to address both basic technical understanding as well as the social dimension of digital development. However, the pandemic Educational opportunities are opportunities for the future. Every child has show that even the basics are missing, including in comparison to has a right to a good school, regardless of where they live. But the other countries. We want to change this: with up-to-date, data-protec- everyday world looks different. We want to create permanent fun- tion-friendly digital facilities and with structures that effectively sup- ding channels for greater educational equity to bolster regions and port schools in digital teaching and learning – with ongoing advanced districts with special support requirements. Lasting educational suc- and further training offers for the educational staff as well as a central cess will only come about through the coordinated cooperation of all place for advice and discussion about education in a digital world. Full- the institutions and people involved and through long-term funding time administrators are required to develop and maintain the technical channels. We support multi-professional teams in which teachers, infrastructure at schools. We want to promote this in the context of school social workers, childcare workers, school psychologists and federal powers. Together with the states, we want improve the digital other skilled workers employed in the school or region complement training of teachers. We want tablets and laptops to be learning tools and enrich each other with different perspectives in order to be able as a matter of course. Our goal is to enable new types of learning for to support the students and their families in the best possible way. all students and to prepare them for autonomous and healthy parti- This includes systematic prevention work, closing learning gaps and cipation in a digital world. For this we want to comprehensively pro- promoting German as well as mother tongue language skills. Mul- mote applications such as open-source and secure learning platforms tilingualism should be seen as a resource rather than a deficit. All or video conference systems, and we are committed to introducing the

Chapter 4 Chapter players cooperate on an equal footing. This way the participation of right to delete personal data for children. Skills of the future, such as 4 Chapter students and cooperation with parents will also be improved, and cooperation, communication, creativity and critical thinking are beco- schools will become places of support for the whole family. We want ming more and more relevant. We want to promote these future skills to protect the mental health of children and young people better in in the most educationally effective way, whether that is digital or ana- the long term. Students should be able to feel comfortable and safe logue. This also includes promoting the STEM subjects in schools. Due at school. Not only in the classroom but also in the school playground, to digitalisation, education is less bound to a particular location: new the corridors and bathrooms. That is why we want to invest in a bet- scope for nationwide and international cooperation with educational ter learning environment and higher quality education. Measures to and cultural institutions is emerging. To implement all this, we also promote educational equity that work well, including by international want further develop the Digital Pact on a long-term, permanent basis comparison, should be scientifically investigated more intensively and into a real joint project – with clear goals and time horizons, which are recommendations for action provided. to be achieved together under of the respective responsibility of the federal government, the states and local authorities.

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Strengthening Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) We will bolster training and studying We support the implementation of the UNESCO Education for Sus- tainable Development programme, which aims to drive forward the Secure training prospects integration of ESD worldwide in all educational networks and at local level. ESD should therefore be anchored in all phases and areas of Despite an enormous shortage of skilled workers, the number of education according to the ESD national action plan. To create incen- young people starting vocational training is falling. At the same time, tives for local authorities, local and regional educational networks more and more are ending up in the queues waiting for help from will be set up and supported in cooperation with the states. The fede- the “transitional system”. Dual training has to be put onto a secure rally funded ESD competence centre already assists around 50 of the footing. We want to enable all young people to start a recognised trai- 10,000 local authorities in Germany. This must be strengthened to be ning course and ensure the right to training with the training guaran- able to provide more services for local authorities. tee. In this respect, we will promote more collaborative training and, where necessary, also use external training. We support companies Educational cooperation between the federal government and that want to train, with pay-as-you-go financing. This can succeed in the states encouraging businesses to continue to train and increase training, and young people – particularly in rural regions – are given the pro- Our goal is an educational system that ensures good starting con- spect of remaining there. With the expansion and improvement of ditions everywhere and for all, for free, future-oriented and inclu- inclusive assisted training and training-related assistance, we want sive education and that guarantees, independent of gender, origin, to support more young people in training. The aim is to make it pos- residency status or disabilities, equal and fair opportunities. On the sible for individual training modules to be recognised and certified as one hand, this requires sufficient financial resources for the states; partial qualifications so that none of the work leading up to a full pro- on the other hand, we want to constitutionally ensure cooperation fessional qualification is wasted. In addition, we want to work with the between the federal government, the states and the local authori- relevant authorities to ensure that exams are increasingly available in ties. In this way, schools should become places which – anchored in plain language. We support the expansion of nationwide employment the local community – are geared towards developing the individual agencies for young people so that all young people get good advice potential of every child. To do this, schools need the scope to make during the transition from school into work and good support in the

Chapter 4 Chapter their own decisions. However, the basis for all this is smart, forward- initial phase of their training from a single source under one roof. We 4 Chapter looking educational financing that enables more flexibility, especi- will combine careers advice and services to promote vocational trai- ally in primary schools and nurseries as it is here that the foundation ning until people get their first job and bolster these together with is laid. In agreement with the states, we are campaigning for up-to- the Employment Agency. date, sustainable and more standardised educational goals and the implementation of the segregation ban provided by the constitution. Equal opportunities through professional In nurseries as well as in all types of schools, children and young and academic education people must be able to develop freely and be protected from discrimination. For this they need contact people, and it requires educa- There are high-quality educational paths in Germany, in universities tional programmes on anti-discrimination, diversity, LSBTIQ* issues as well as in the dual vocational training system. We want vocatio- and an understanding of democracy. nal and academic training to offer the same opportunities for autonomous life planning and a successful working life and there to be

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true freedom of choice for young people. Both training and studying view of the age and semester limits. As long as the standard period impart valuable, varied applicable skills. In this respect, all vocational of study is relevant for student financing, engagement by students schools must be well-equipped, and training must enable an inde- should be promoted through improved skills crediting options from pendent life above the poverty line. That is why we back a minimum voluntary work. We want to involve students and their representatives training allowance of at least 80% of the average collectively agreed at the federal level more and expand their opportunities to contri- training allowances. We want to make the qualification requirements bute on university and academic policy issues. For this we want to, for for the classification into pay categories for the higher and senior example, pave the way for introducing representation for all students levels of the civil service more flexible at federal level and reinforce at the federal level. It should be entirely self-administered by stu- the equivalence of vocational and academic education in tenders dents and act independently of other institutions. issued by federal bodies. In addition, we will expand talent scouting programmes as well as scholarship programmes regardless of the educational path. Training and studying are a time to discover new We will enable lifelong learning things. This is why more opportunities should be available for trainees and students to spend time abroad. Likewise, we want to make A legal right to further training studying and training easier for people from abroad. We support step- ping up the European funding programmes such as ERASMUS+ and The possibility to change career path and the scope to learn new things want at least 10 percent of trainees to be able to spend time abroad. are essential in a modern knowledge society and working world in a This will help to bring an international dimension to both vocational time of transition that should offer opportunities. Equally, the corona- and academic education. virus pandemic made it necessity for many people to seek out new fields of work. We want everyone, whether unemployed, self-employed A basic income while training and studying or employed, to be able to autonomously develop new professional prospects in the future. We therefore make the case for an individual We want everyone to be able to afford school education or studying, legal right to further training and qualification. To ensure social secu- regardless of the income or financial status of their parents. In this rity, adequate continuing education benefits are needed for further respect, we want to redraft the Federal Training Assistance Act and training and qualifications related to the labour market; for all others adapt it to provide a basic income for all students and trainees. As a who want to develop professionally developing or change careers, a

Chapter 4 Chapter first step, it should consist of a guaranteed sum and a top-up accor- Federal Training Assistance Act for further training is required. This will 4 Chapter ding to need which substantially increases the total amount in com- also benefit those who have up to now been overlooked, for example, parison to today‘s Federal Training Assistance Act and benefits the women, people with a migration history or disabilities and all those majority of the group of people in question. Students and trainees get in precarious employment. To allow dependent employees the time the amount transferred directly. Going forward, it should be designed for vocational and further training, we want to introduce the right to to be independent of parents. As not every educational path is linear a leave of absence with the right to return on the previous number or may sometimes be part-time, we want to design educational finan- of working hours. In addition, we will set up educational agencies for cing to be even more independent of age. A step in this direction is improved, combined advice and support. The aim is for relevant regio- the introduction of a Federal Training Assistance Act for further trai- nal providers of further training to network in these. We back good ning. People with disabilities will receive additional unbureaucratic working conditions and fair pay in further training and want to support support. We reject tuition and administrative fees at state universities. adult education centres and similar public and non-profit educational We want to further develop student health insurance, especially in institutions as important partners for further training.

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Promoting literacy Agency for Disruptive Innovation” (SprinD) should be more flexibly organised so that it can concentrate on its core tasks. Overall, we want It is still the case that more than six million people in Germany over to strengthen the expertise in science and research in all the minis- the age of 18 cannot read and write adequately. This means that they tries as well as the key highest federal authorities and improve inter- have difficulties understanding entire texts and are thereby impaired agency cooperation in relation to the major research challenges. Our in respect of their participation in society. These figures are unaccep- public authorities should enable sustainable change, not inhibit it. It table 100 years after the introduction of general compulsory schoo- is also important to maintain our independent access to space where ling and in one of the richest industrial nations in the world. We want space flight is gaining important insights on fundamental issues. This to provide money and course capacity – for adults, but also for chil- is why we want to bolster the European Space Agency (ESA) as well dren. Because the causes can often be traced as far back as pre-school as the New Space sector and we support a European and new inter- age. We want to define and evaluate specific reduction targets for national legal framework which also regulates private protagonists. illiteracy. We want to support barrier-free communication in public areas to enable everyone to participate in society. Adequate funding for science

We want to take on the responsibility of advancing Germany as We will improve the conditions for science a knowledge society, creating the best conditions for research and innovation and bolstering the diversity of the academic system. This More space for big ideas includes outstanding non-university research institutions as well as broad-based universities with top-level research. We want to reach a We can only overcome the major challenges of our time, such as the situation where the state and companies invest at least 3.5 percent climate crisis, pandemics, as well as a more efficient use of raw mate- of economic output in research and development overall by 2025 and rials, with the aid of innovative solutions and progress. The market further expand investment going forward. This is how we can enable cannot do everything on its own here. When it comes to solving such more creativity, freedom, even to step into uncharted territory, and major tasks, the state has to drive innovation in a mission-oriented way. international networking and create planning certainty for the research It should lay out clear objectives, create incentives, organise coope- landscape. Furthermore, we need adequate basic funding in science in rations between companies, universities and civil society and spark order to once more curb the dependence on external funding which

Chapter 4 Chapter dynamism through targeted research funding and strategic indust- has risen sharply in recent years. To enable the external funding used 4 Chapter rial and procurement policies. A university campus which is strongly to unleash additional dynamism, we want to draw up public external networked with its environment and develops a strong reputation in funding for longer than the usual three years and orient the overhead the entire region will become a space for experimentation for real costs covered towards the actual costs incurred. Internationally visible changes. Major problems can only be solved comprehensively and in cutting-edge university research should also benefit students more, a joint effort. Therefore, we want to orient the federal funding policy and we want to cooperatively further develop the Excellence Stra- towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A civil orien- tegy. Together with the states, we want to stabilise and qualitatively tation of science is key. Technical, social and ecological innovations advance the Future Contract for Strengthening Studying and Teaching which are also tied to socio-ecological research are of equal value to as well as the Pact for Research and Innovation. Adequate and sustai- us. We want to drive forward the urgently needed sustainable trans- nable funding also increases the academic system‘s ability to respond formation also through the establishment and expansion of research to future crises. Because the future of our country also depends on partnerships and infrastructure in Germany and Europe. The “Federal how flexible and free our research landscape is.

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Science for all the academic world. The reform of the funding of academic publications arising from this must not be at the expense of researchers or At this time of information filter bubbles and conspiracy theories on their institutions. Universities are laboratories for the future for aca- the one hand and epochal new challenges on the other, scientific demia, the economy and society. As key players in our innovation and advice and easily comprehensible communication of scientific met- education ecosystem, they bear responsibility for the education of the hods is more important for democratic debate than ever. The skills shapers of our future and for academia and society‘s capacity for rene- for correctly dealing with information and scientific knowledge are wal. We want to strengthen the national research data infrastructure fundamental for an enlightened society. Stronger involvement of and embrace the opportunities for academia and research provided by civil society through participative, networked formats, secure access the European Cloud. Future-proof infrastructure at universities inclu- to information for all, as well as easy-to-understand communication des modern libraries, teaching and learning rooms, climate-friendly of scientific knowledge are prerequisites for a constructive, mutu- refurbishment of outdated university buildings and sustainability and ally stimulating relationship between science and society. In addi- climate protection in new academic buildings. We also want to fully tion, we want to strengthen scientific communication and promote implement the Education for Sustainable Development national action the training and further training of scientists in this area. Through plan and likewise support the development of new teaching and lear- more participative formats such as real-world laboratories, citizen ning formats in universities to be able to confront the major social science and experimentation spaces, society can better participate in challenges of our time. We want to enhance the cohesion between research projects. This brings in further perspectives and helps real research and teaching at universities. To guarantee good teaching for processes of change to be supported by science. In the context of all students, we want to improve supervision ratios and strengthen the science-led politics, we want to involve inter- and transdisciplinary Foundation for Innovation in University Teaching to bring best practice scientific expertise in policy development earlier on – for example, to the field. For us, good teaching is student-centred, research- and through “legislation laboratories”. Assessing the impact of technology project-oriented, based on a variety of methods and perspectives; it and monitoring the social consequences of political measures should enhances curiosity and skills to shape a sustainable future. Together be expanded to support decision-makers. with the states, we want to work towards students having access to good advisory services. We will promote and ensure low-priced accom- Making universities fit for tomorrow modation for students with an initiative for student housing.

Chapter 4 Chapter We want to enable the sustainable, climate-friendly and barrier-free Better working conditions and secure career paths 4 Chapter modernisation of universities, also including the digital infrastructure and IT security. We will support them in developing new solutions for Secure working conditions and equal career opportunities for all are climate protection and to enable them to trial ideas in practice on the prerequisites for a lively and innovative academic landscape which site as real-world laboratories for climate neutrality. Furthermore, we is also attractive for academics from abroad. However, there are hardly will strengthen the IT infrastructure at universities via a digitalisation any predictable secure career paths for junior researchers, especially in grant and call for IT accessibility, enhance training and further training universities. This endangers the spirit of research and squanders poten- for teachers and expand advisory and support services for students. tial in terms of innovation, performance and quality. And it is unreaso- Access to research and education data should be made easier and nable for those affected. We want to expand the Academic Fixed-Term FAIR data become the core principle. In addition, we want to establish Contract Act and substantially increase the share of permanent emp- open access as the norm for publications and more strongly promote loyee posts, especially for non-professorial academic staff. Permanent this as a central academic theme, driving this forward together with tasks should also be guaranteed by permanent positions. To that end,

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permanent career paths besides professorships, are required, to dis- academics and students worldwide here in Germany and at the EU mantle hierarchies and strengthen cooperative working methods in level and offer them prospects in exile. To this end, we want to fund academia. We want to clearly define what qualifies as an objectively and coordinate the existing federal programmes and initiatives better justified fixed-term contract and make the family policy components and set up a joint European fund. The recognition of foreign profes- binding. The collective bargaining restrictions should be dropped. We sional qualifications and granting of visas should be simplified. We want to further develop the Tenure-Track Programme so that secure will consistently object to attacks on academic freedom in other EU career paths emerge early after the doctorate. In teaching in particu- states, for example in Hungary, and advocate sanctions in the context lar, many tasks are still being covered by poorly paid teaching positi- of the rule of law mechanism. The reinforcement of academic freedom ons. We want to increase the status of teaching and create permanent must be a central aspect of foreign policy. In this respect, we want to posts. The academic and university landscape is still predominantly extend the Research and Academic Relations Initiative and provide male, white, West German and characterised by people from academic better funding for the intermediary organisations involved in foreign family backgrounds and therefore does not sufficiently represent the cultural and educational policy. We want to protect sensitive data and diversity of the society. As a result, important potential and perspec- researchers who use it for their work from access by the authorities. tives are lost. We want to change this by the targeted promotion of There must be effective protection from hostility, such as that now diversity at universities and academic institutions, funding formats for often experienced by researchers and foreign students. A critical dis- diversity and anti-discrimination policy, equal access, equal opportu- course and diversity of opinions within universities and academia are nities, inclusion and diversity of perspectives so that social diversity a prerequisite for a democratic, pluralistic society. At a time of increa- is also reflected on campus. Only a quarter of all professorships in sing polarisation of social debates, we rely on academia as a factual, Germany are occupied by women. Furthermore, many young acade- rational space for discourse. Even controversial topics and issues must mics are only employed on fixed-term contracts. These are structural be able to be discussed constructively in this space. barriers that should be dismantled. We want a proportion of women of at least 40 percent at all levels through the introduction of specific target ratios, a strategy for better compatibility of family and career in the academic sector, the introduction of a binding cascade model as well as the expansion of the Programme for Women Professors. We want to enable flexible working time models in all employment

Chapter 4 Chapter contracts that allow care and family work to be carried out. More 4 Chapter diversity in the academic world also helps to reduce gender-specific information gaps and introduce new perspectives.

Defending academic freedom

Political action in the intellectual tradition of the Enlightenment and orientation towards scientific knowledge are increasingly under pressure, including in Germany. Our position is to counteract this, and we want to work with academic organisations to develop strategies to combat misanthropic, discriminatory and conspiracy theory-based hostility against academics. We want to better protect persecuted

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women, half of the population does not have equal participation and Chapter 5: is not equally represented and paid, and people still experience discrimination, racism and antisemitism, democracy is not perfect. More avenues, more participation more self-efficacy and more representa- Living together tion are required, for example for people in precarious living circumstances, people with an immigrant background or with a disability. An equitable society needs policies that change the structures. Our diverse society is strong. Because people are actively engaged, in Racism does not affect us all, but it is everybody‘s business. If we, sports, in the voluntary fire brigade, in music schools, in religious com- as a society, learn to see diversity as a cultural, social and economic munities or on helplines, young for old, old for young. Because there is resource, we protect each other from violence, incitement, marginali- a broad range of cultural offers and a multifaceted media landscape. sation, misogyny, homophobia and racism. But that is still not enough. Because young people get involved, because people take on responsi- We know that discriminatory words become actions. The attacks by bility in local parliaments, and citizens contribute to forums and take enemies of democracy, especially from the right, affect our democratic the destiny of their locations into their own hands. society right to its core. They target people while they are praying, during However, democracy is never finished. Our democratic coexistence high-spirited get-togethers or within the institutions of the state. They in Germany and Europe is a pledge we have to keep on renewing. It have to be clearly confronted with an antiracist and antifascist stance. promises equal development opportunities and rights for all those Our democracy has to defensively put up resistance, with a strong civil who live here. Brave people took to the streets for democracy, free- society, confident parliaments, a well-equipped, community-oriented dom and tolerance in the past: civil rights activists, environmentalists, police force and an independent judiciary capable of quick action. It is peace activists and women‘s rights activists. And today too, people the task of politics to create the conditions for this. are fighting for a diverse, open and tolerant society. BÜNDNIS 90/DIE How we shape the way we live together strongly depends on the GRÜNEN policy builds on this with an all-German view that recogni- interaction between citizens and the state. When people are involved ses the specific features of the regions. It is often challenging, and to and listened to, planning is achieved more quickly. When young peo- some extent an unreasonable demand when other points of view and ple also have a say, decisions are better and more future-proof. When values have to be accepted and respected if this is moving forward equality and diversity prevail, they become more balanced and sustai- too fast for some and too slow for others. But above all, strength lies nable. We therefore want to create more opportunities for people to in: listening, seeking dialogue and wrestling with the substance. This get involved. is how, as a democratic society, we have mastered the challenges of More and more challenges are both European and global. We can recent decades. Now, the issue at hand is to strengthen our liberal only manage these in a strong European Union, which brings together democracy with full equality and more participation, in Germany and the will to act and the capacity for action, and which its citizens are Chapter 5 Chapter in Europe, in the streets and in parliaments, and to make our institu- actively and democratically involved in shaping. This is why we think 5 Chapter tions fit for the tasks of this decade. of our democracy as resolutely European, we want to consolidate and People are different but equal in terms of their dignity and rights. strengthen it and structurally overcome paralysing blockages – and Only when dignity and equal rights are non-negotiable, when all the thereby approach issues of the future in a determined way. Our gui- people in our society, in our Europe have the same protection and ding star for the future development of the European Union is a Fede- opportunities and can exercise their rights, only then do freedom and ral European Republic with a European constitution. security emerge – individual and social – and equity is fostered. Howe- The fight against the pandemic has all too clearly revealed a num- ver, this aspiration has not yet been fully realised. When, in the case of ber of shortcomings: fax machines in permanent operation, a lack of

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staff and excessive bureaucracy prevent effective government action. Digital offices – service-oriented, fast and helpful Our goal is a modern, committed state that, with an efficient and accessible administration, is transparent, open and able to effecti- Every day, well-trained professionals accomplish their work in the aut- vely manage crises and ensure digital participation, while generally horities to keep the country running. However, for many people, con- making it easy for citizens to manage their daily life and exercise their tact with German authorities is uncomfortable and outmoded. One rights. Familiar traditions and principles have to be reconsidered, as reason for this is inadequate technology and outdated and obsolete inclusive digital transformation and modernisation of procedures are procedures. We want to modernise our administration with accessible central building blocks to fortify democracy, participation and coope- e-government services, secure digital participation formats and open ration. To manage this task, better structural embedding of digitali- government and dismantle unnecessary bureaucracy such as require- sation at all administrative levels is necessary. We want to govern ments for the written form. Administrative procedures should always with integrity and transparency. Equality, cooperation and cohesion in be conceived and designed to be digital, especially when working with diversity are benchmarks to realise a state that is closely connected companies. At the same time, it must be ensured that the doors of to its citizens. the state also remain open for personal contact with citizens and are supplemented by mobile services. The use of digital administrative services should occur via a central access point. The exchange of docu- We will make the state more effective and ments between authorities must be possible with the relevant consent and in compliance with data protection. The administration itself more closely connected to citizens has to be digitalised so that it can accomplish all this. Together with the states, we will work to ensure that the administration is equipped Speeding up of planning and investment: with the most up-to-date technology nationwide, from health offices better quality for quicker implementation through to local citizens‘ offices. Digitalisation will change the basis of the relationship between state and citizen. In this respect, we will pur- Germany needs a modernisation campaign in the coming years. The rail sue the vision of a digital, application-free and proactive social state. infrastructure, renewable energies and energy networks need to be expan- In this, state benefits will be checked and automatically provided to ded, schools, roads and bridges repaired and digital infrastructure esta- those entitled, without complicated applications. blished. However, currently it often takes far too long to realise these types of projects; investment resources are not flowing. We want to change that. The identity card on smartphone To speed up planning, we will create more public planning capacity. We will launch a recruitment campaign at all levels in planning authorities If you are equipped with a digital identity, you can comfortably aut- and the relevant courts. Processes will be streamlined by combining per- henticate yourself and communicate safely. We want to achieve what Chapter 5 Chapter mits and the existing approaches of “concentrated permits” will be exten- has already been practised for a long time in the Scandinavian count- 5 Chapter ded to all key infrastructure projects. Apart from this, we will introduce ries – being able to deal with the authorities easily with your smart- internal deadlines within the authorities and pay attention to inclusion phone – and, at the same time, also think holistically about possibili- in all planning projects. In addition, the federal parliament should take on ties for the state, economy and society right from the beginning. We more responsibility in infrastructure projects if solutions to conflicts can want to understand digital service offers by the administration as a be reached more quickly this way. The early involvement of citizens on platform for the state, business and civil society and create added location also generally enables projects to be finalised more quickly and value for all by means of modular, secure components. We want to effectively. The goal is to halve all planning and implementation times. open up existing systems more and enable public offices to also be

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able to confirm identity. This is how we want to create an identity Renewal requires good data infrastructure that allows natural and legal persons to use their digital identity by means of smartphones, online services or identification The coronavirus crisis has also once again shown that Germany lies documents. With transparency and technological neutrality, we want far behind comparable countries with regard to data availability. to make EU-wide interoperable digital identities a basic infrastruc- While in the USA, large amounts data were available almost in real ture of our digital community. For communication with the public time, allowing political measures to be evaluated promptly, in our sector, we want to create an open system which enables the end-to- case, there is a lack of sufficient, quickly available data. We want to end encrypted exchange of messages. The aim is to provide citizens change this and make data promptly available to researchers, politi- with the right to digital delivery of official documents. In this respect, cal decision-makers and civil society. We will establish a public data people who are not yet digitally literate need support in the form of institute with a legal research mandate to deal with basic questions training and assistance. Every person should be provided with a digital around the better provision and anonymisation of data and drive for- identity free of charge to be able to digitally identify themselves and ward networking, the development of standards and licence models. sign digitally. This type of smartphone mobile wallet can be used in The goal is to broaden research in this area, test new approaches, all sectors. As part of an integrated e-government strategy, we want to foster exchange between different projects and support data consoli- enable a mobile pass for various mobility services, administrative ser- dation by providing advice; the aim here is also to prevent misuse and vices, e-health and e-justice infrastructures and digital participation support conciliation processes. A paradigm shift is required towards formats. At the same time, we want to create the legal basis for this common standards instead of enclosed data silos and, for example, so that the economy can also use this process across all sectors, for the possibility of enabling simple, data-protection-friendly sharing of example for secure log-in procedures, financial and insurance services data via data custodian models. We will also strengthen the Federal or for digitally authorised access to public registers, for example to ver- Statistical Office to improve data availability for politics, the public ify driving licences. The EU and Germany must be pioneers with regard and research and make the data available more promptly. to sovereign digital identities and use their authority to create trust. A climate-neutral federal administration Transparency law for open data Climate protection needs pioneers and role models. We want the Access to government databases enables innovative, electronic services federal administration to finally become both of these. The federal as well as new democratic participation opportunities. Regulated access administration must become climate neutral. This includes the use of to open data from government databases is also important for new green energy and the vehicles operated by the federal authorities as technological applications. We will submit a federal transparency law well as the federal buildings, which will be equipped with renewable to make government databases available to the general public accor- heating and cooling systems and fully modernised in terms of energy. Chapter 5 Chapter ding to the principles of open data. In this way, we will open up the The roofs of the federal authorities will become power stations with 5 Chapter treasure chest of non-personal data generated by public funds. We want the introduction of a solar standard beyond new buildings. For official to expand the existing data portal GovData into a central, user-friendly, missions, the aim is to reduce air travel to a minimum. In addition, we open-government and e-government portal. To ensure comprehensive will make sure that the federal government orients its purchasing and equitable participation and sovereign administration, we want to, whe- funding criteria towards adherence to ecological, human rights and rever possible, use open standards, interfaces and software, publish the social standards. We want the profitability calculation used for tende-

emerging software under a free licence and we will include this as ring and funding public projects to be based on the CO2 shadow price. standard in the tendering and contract regulations for public funds. Politics will thus lead the way by setting a good example.

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The learning state cedures. We want to restrict the external ministerial right to issue instructions to the public prosecutor‘s office in individual cases and The coronavirus and climate crisis bring home the huge scale of the make this transparent and to enable the states to test models of judi- challenges the government and administration have to deal with cial self-administration. today. We want the public administration to be in a position to act with foresight and, at the same time, to be able to adapt quickly and Reinforcing and modernising the civil service consistently to its respective tasks. This requires a culture of official cooperation and the facilitation of innovative approaches. Innovation The civil service, the millions of people who work in the administra- units and agile project teams in public authorities should foster this tions, ministries and authorities, are the backbone of our democracy culture change and, at the same time, ensure cooperation at all levels. and the foundation of our community. However, in recent decades, too Flexible working hours and a positive error culture will promote many savings and cuts have been made in the civil service – and we acceptance of new behaviour patterns. Public authorities should work are all feeling the consequences today. In order for our state to keep closely and transparently with academia, business and civil society, up with the major challenges we face, public employees have to be network with each other and test new ideas. Artists and other creati- put in a position to be able to do this. Therefore, we want to restreng- ves should be brought in to help stimulate ideas and provide impetus then the civil service and modernise it at the same time. More jobs, during transformation processes. In addition, the expertise and crea- especially in IT and the planning sector, good wages, flexible career tivity of employees and civil servants should be fostered and reinfor- paths and more transparency will make the civil service fit for the ced, for example through further training. We will also work to ensure 21st century. To this end, we will launch a major further training cam- more cooperation between the ministries in pursuing common goals. paign for the public administration and make digitalisation the focal point of all administrative training. Reducing the workload and digitalising the judiciary Diversity in the administration Courts and law enforcement authorities contend with heavy worklo- ads. Legal proceedings take too long. Here, there is an urgent need Diversity in society must also be reflected in its administration. This to reduce the workload through more staff, the out-of-court settle- strengthens state institutions and contributes to trust and a close ment of disputes, by decriminalising petty offences and by equipping connection to citizens. However, a diverse, anti-discriminatory admi- the judiciary with the necessary technology nationwide. We want to nistration does not come about on its own, but instead requires funds, design the judiciary to be fundamentally more service-oriented and structures and targeted support. In the civil service sector and com- will look for new ways to do this. We will provide sufficient funding panies with government ownership, the state has the opportunity to implement the digitalisation of the judiciary and meet its staffing to set a good example in terms of diversity and to introduce diver- Chapter 5 Chapter needs through a federal-state digital justice pact, which will continue sity mainstreaming throughout the administration. This includes, for 5 Chapter and substantiate the Pact for the Rule of Law due to expire at the end example, promoting multilingualism in the administration and pay- of 2021. The police and the public prosecutor‘s office must be able to ing attention to gender equality as well as social diversity in recruit- cooperate digitally, and to this end, standardised programs and suffi- ment and promotion, carrying out anti-discriminatory organisational cient bandwidths are required. We will promote and simplify electro- development in public authorities and companies and embedding the nic communication between citizens and the judiciary. This includes goal of equality and the representation of discriminated groups in easy access to the law through fast online procedures for simple legal company mission statements, as well as offering diversity training. matters and the strengthening of consensual dispute resolution pro- This applies particularly to those closely involved in the application

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process, such as the human resources department or interview panels, pate equally in elections, votes and all other democratic processes; which should be appointed in a way that is as gender-equitable and in a first step, we want to introduce the right to vote in municipal diverse as possible. We will introduce binding targets to increase the elections for third-countries nationals. proportion of people with an immigrant background at all levels. We want to drive forward diversity budgeting, in other words the deploy- Systematically working against racism ment and evaluation of budgetary resources in a way that particularly promotes diversity. Racism is a reality in everyday life, on the street, on the Internet and in institutions. It does not affect all of us equally, but it is everybody‘s business equally. The fight again racism and its different forms, such as anti- We stand for diversity, recognition black and anti-Asian racism is a task for the whole of society with the goal of strengthening the individual rights of all people. Racism and all and equal rights forms of discrimination not only represent a great danger for those affected, but also threaten equitable and peaceful coexistence as well as secu- Unity in diversity rity in Germany. We want to enshrine protection from and elimination of discriminations and structural and institutional racism in the constitution We are all different, but equal in terms of rights and dignity. Cohe- with a state guarantee right, in addition to the overdue replacement of sion in diversity requires that we are respected, recognised and the term „race“. The Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency (FADA) should heard, able to cocreate and participate, to live freely without fear be upgraded to the highest federal authority – with more staff, funding and encounter each other as equals, seeing what we have in com- and competences. Its leadership should be elected as the Anti-Discri- mon as well as our differences. Therefore, we will enshrine the mis- mination Commissioner by the Federal Lower House of Parliament. We sion statement “Unity in Diversity” in law to create an antiracist and want to further develop the General Act on Equal Treatment into a real equitable immigration society. In order that the perspectives and federal anti-discrimination law that finally closes protection gaps, sim- expertise of those who are affected by discrimination and structural plifies claims against discrimination for those affected and includes a disadvantages are heard and they have the opportunity to partici- comprehensive right to take collective legal action, enabling discrimina- pate as equals, we want to introduce a participation council similar tion to be tackled structurally and sustainably. The network of advisory to the German Ethics Council, as a legally enshrined and indepen- centres in civil society should be developed nationwide and be funded dent committee with representatives from the (post-)migrant civil in a way that enables them to reliably and continuously fulfil their tasks. society, academia and research, who represent the different dimen- Contact points and complaints offices should be created in government sions of diversity. To systematically dismantle discrimination and institutions. We want to promote the empowerment of people affected promote social cohesion, we want to combine topics and compe- by discrimination. The Black Lives Matter protests have made it clear Chapter 5 Chapter tences that affect equality and participation in an open and diverse that racism against black people must be comprehensively combated, 5 Chapter society in one ministry. For this, we will remove the tasks relating to including in Germany. We therefore want to promote the UN Decade for the immigration society from the Federal Ministry of the Interior. To People of African Descent. Crimes against black people should be expli- improve representation and participation, we will present a federal citly identified in reports on protection of the constitution. In addition, participation law and reform the Federal Act on Appointment to we advocate that anti-Asian racism is named in the National Action Plan Bodies. Government action should be oriented towards our diverse Against Racism. We will develop independent research on post-colonia- society and guarantee equality. Anyone who permanently has their lism, discrimination and racism, regularly collect data on anti-discrimi- main place of residence here must have the opportunity to partici- nation and equality and carry out scientific studies in relation to govern-

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ment institutions and the effectiveness of anti-discrimination measures. Protecting and empowering Muslims We want to embed anti-racism, anti-discrimination and post-colonialism in teacher training and in curricula. Muslim life in all its diversity is part of our social reality in Germany. At the same time, Muslims are particularly affected by structural discrimi- Empowerment and security for Jewish people in Germany nation and violent attacks. The continuing threats to Muslim institutions show how urgently prevention programmes and comprehensive We will consistently promote Jewish life in all its diversity in Germany and protection concepts are required for individuals and spaces perceived make it visible. We support projects and initiatives that reinforce Jewish as Muslim. Victims must be protected, advised and empowered, and a secular life as well as Jewish religious life, Jewish culture and Jewish stronger focus must be placed on the root causes. The state must not education. We want to make political and cultural educational offers discriminate against or unjustifiably favour any religion. The heteroge- accessible to all citizens to transmit knowledge on Jewish life generally neous structure of Islam, perceived as a strength by Muslims, which does as well as contacts and experiences with Jewish people and institutions not recognise religious or structurally embedded hierarchy, must the- in Germany. Jewish people in Germany must be able to feel safe. Their refore not put them at a disadvantage in terms of the legislature. Real safety and the protection of Jewish institutions and communities must be equality requires legal equality. We therefore support state treaties with comprehensive. Antisemitic attacks in the present, especially the attack in Islamic religious communities with no structural dependence on a state, Halle in 2019, remind us how strong hostility against Jews and antisemit- party or political movement or its or their respective governing policies ism still is, as well as how extensive ignorance about the reality of Jewish and which self-define themselves as religious. We also want to integrate life in Germany is. It is our joint responsibility to confront antisemitism liberal, Muslim representatives who stand up for values such as gender and antisemistic hate speech – also in everyday life and regardless of equality, LSBTIQ* rights and feminism and practise a living faith within the motives – with full resolve. For this, better analytical capacities are the spectrum of Islamic religion. Likewise, we show solidarity with critics required and determined sanctioning and documentation of antisemitic of fundamentalist political forces if they are seriously threatened. For incidents. Antisemitic narratives, Israel-related antisemitism and conspi- the independent and confident practice of religion for Muslims, training racy theory narratives – including in the context of demonstrations by for imams is urgently required in Germany. For this, we want to establish pandemic deniers – must be preventively addressed in a wide variety of and support Islamic theology and practice-oriented training and further locations, including and especially in the digital space. This requires spe- training programmes for imams and Islamic officials in cooperation with cific awareness-raising and prevention projects in associations and civil the institutes for Islamic theology across the Federal Republic. In the society organisations, for which we want regular funding. The prevention long term, the aim is to meet the Muslim communities‘ need for religious and confrontation of antisemitism should also be embedded in curricula staff through people trained in Germany. as a guiding principle, beyond history lessons. We want to expand further training in this area, especially for employees of the security agencies Resolutely combating antiziganism Chapter 5 Chapter and law enforcement authorities, as well as the courts. Guidelines are 5 Chapter required for the effective protection of Jewish institutions and the Jewish People with a Roma background are still being discriminated against communities must be involved in developing these. We want to streng- in Europe and Germany due to deep-seated racism that goes to the then the social security of the older generations of Jews in Germany, most heart of society. Members of the largest minority in the European of whom are survivors of the Holocaust or their descendants, many from Union are still disadvantaged in terms of access to education, heath, the former Soviet Union. They must be treated in the same way as the housing and work. Hence, we want to implement the new EU Roma immigrant ethnic German resettlers from the states of the former Soviet Strategic Framework (post-2020) and achieve the ambitious inclusion Union in terms of their pension. goals of the EU. For this, a “national coordination office” with sufficient

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financial funds and powers is required to undertake the implementa- increased. To enable autonomous mobility and independent living, tion and monitoring of the German strategy in coordination with the we also want to strengthen urban development funding for inclusive federal states, administrations and self-help organisations. Minority city districts and tie social housing development funding to accessi- rights such as the preservation of the languages, history and cultures bility. Accessibility should become standard on public transport, which of the Sinti and Roma people must be guaranteed. We want to esta- everyone with severe disability should be able to use free of charge, blish an independent civil society monitoring and information office in public establishments, shops, commercial and office buildings. We for the documentation and processing of racist incidents and to sup- want to continue to deal with the crimes of German history towards port those affected, and to review and implement the recommendati- people with disabilities and adequately compensate the victims. ons of the independent commission on antiziganism. We will promote the establishment of a student union for Sinti and Roma people and Further developing the relationship between support the creation of a museum on the history and cultures of the the state and churches Sinti and Roma people in Germany. Roma people are still being depor- ted from Germany even if they have lived here for decades and suf- The Christian churches and communities are important players in fer discrimination in their countries of origin. More attention should civil society. They invest our society with varied impulses and con- therefore be paid to the situation of Roma people in their countries tribute to social cohesion. Church-based organisations are also of of origin in asylum procedures and when checking the right of abode major importance for work with people in need of care, people with independent of asylum. disabilities and children. Their energetic support in the areas of sea rescue and the integration of refugees is an important social con- For an inclusive, accessible society tribution. We want to further strengthen the basic right to religious freedom, freedom of conscience and freedom of belief and protect We stand for an inclusive society in accordance with the UN Con- those persecuted for their religion or belief. We will safeguard religi- vention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, in which people ous communities‘ right to self-determination and seek cooperation with disabilities can autonomously contribute their skills and talents. and dialogue with all religious and ideological communities that Steps, doors that are too narrow or hard-to-read websites – in our respect the Basic Law, at the same time always standing for the daily life. there are many different things which represent a barrier secular state and its principle of neutrality. Non-religious people for people with a disability, but also for older people, parents with a also have a right to comprehensive consideration of their interests pushchair or injured people with a cast on their leg. It is laborious and and to equitable participation. We want to preserve the establis- sometimes impossible to use services that others take for granted. We hed relationship between the state and the Christian churches and, want to create accessibility so that people with different disabilities, where necessary, adapt it to the social reality. In this respect we including mental illnesses, can participate equally in public life and want, for example to reform ecclesiastical employment law, pro- Chapter 5 Chapter live, learn and work independently alongside non-disabled people. mote trade union participation and repeal the exception clauses 5 Chapter We want to achieve this with an “accessibility law”, which obliges pri- for the churches in the Works Constitution Act and the General Act vate and public providers of publicly accessible offers and services on Equal Treatment. The area of religious preaching remains unaf- to ensure comprehensive accessibility and the federal government fected by this. We support the many believers who are committed to make its buildings accessible within ten years. Small businesses to the necessary modernisation of Christian churches and who are will be protected by an excessive demands clause but obliged to pushing for a complete clarification of cases of sexual abuse. We implement reasonable measures. Through an increase of the federal will implement the completion of the constitutional obligation on funding, the proportion of accessible housing should be significantly the removal of state payments. We want to remove Section 166 of

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the Criminal Code (Defamation of religions, religious and ideologi- from EUR 25,000, the obligation of immediate disclosure should take cal associations) and support the establishment of an independent effect. As long as there is no legal regulation, we will apply the regu- academic institution to carry out research into the religious and lations of our Donations Code which goes beyond the Political Parties ideological landscape. Act. For party sponsorship, we finally want to introduce legal regulation and disclosure from the first euro and an annual maximum limit per sponsor. We will strengthen the Political Parties Act and independent We will renew the democratic foundation monitoring so that concealed election campaign funding can be better combated. Political advertising and campaigns on the Internet must For more transparent politics become more transparent – as long as there are no binding regulations, we will lead the way with our voluntary commitment. Democracy is based on the trust of citizens; any appearance of political corruption is damaging. We want to strengthen trust in demo- Making parliament stronger and reforming electoral law cratic institutions and elected representatives and protect the primacy of politics from opaque influence. We are convinced that transparent, The Federal Lower House of Parliament is the key place for open deba- comprehensible politics reinforces the common good. Hence we want tes, discourse and objections and for making decisions in our democracy. to make lobbying more transparent and make the influence of organi- Good legislation requires adequate consultation and the reinforcement sed interest groups and by lobbyists visible. We want to tighten up the of the monitoring rights of parliament. We want to extend the role of lobby register for the federal government, federal ministries and the the Federal Lower House of Parliament in the legislative process. The Federal Lower House of Parliament and eliminate the many exceptions aim is to guarantee and strengthen its ability to work. We therefore for key players. We will create clarity on who has an influence during advocate a reform of electoral law which significantly reduces the size the creation of laws with the legislative footprint. We want to put a of parliament by, among other things, reducing the number of consti- stronger focus on conflicts of interest and allow scrutiny of the transi- tuencies, and which is also fair and constitutional and in which every tion from government offices to business for a period of two years. For vote has equal value. In the context of this reform, the aim is to examine members of parliament, an independent mandate is central to their the extension of the legislative period and a term limit for the office of work. In future, earnings from additional work will be published down Federal Chancellor among other things. The sessions of the specialised to the euro and cent, there will be stricter rules on company invest- committees should take place in public as a rule and be streamed. ments and share options and donations to members of parliament and Members of parliament should be strengthened in their monitoring lobbying by members of parliament will be banned. The application rights in relation to the government, with a right to inspect files. We of these measures should be evaluated. We also want a compulsory want to make complex legislative procedures easier to understand by declaration of the relevant sector with respect to the additional income publishing text comparisons of the changes to the law. Chapter 5 Chapter of members of parliament. Independent controls strengthen transpa- 5 Chapter rency and integrity. To effectively combat cases of corruption requires a Sharing power fairly, including in the parliaments reformulation of the criminal offence of bribing members of parliament and a revision of the standards of proof. Donations to parties must It is high time for a fair sharing of power. Our representative demo- be made more transparent. We therefore want stricter disclosure rules. cracy must become more diverse, our parliaments need a variety of Party donations should be restricted to natural persons and capped backgrounds and life paths and the debates need the perspectives at an annual maximum amount of EUR 100,000 per donor. From EUR they provide. We will dismantle obstacles so that queer people, non- 5,000, donations should be named in the statement of accounts and academics, people with disabilities and people with an immigrant

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background are equally represented as a matter of course. Sharing Citizens‘ councils for more participation power fairly also means that more women are urgently required in the parliaments and local councils as they make up 51 percent of eligible Direct participation opportunities enrich democracy and strengthen voters. Equality for women is a historic and constitutional mission representation. With citizens‘ councils, we will create the opportunity for us all and should be reflected as early as in the nomination pro- to integrate the everyday life experience of citizens into legislation cedures. Examples from other European countries show that parity in the case of selected topics. In a first step, we will ensure the crea- by law is effective and appropriate. Rulings by constitutional courts tion of a legal basis for citizens‘ councils and that parliament has to in two federal states have shown that there are major constitutional address the results. In the coming parliamentary term, we want to obstacles. These obstacles should be dismantled to find legally sound examine further options for a stronger institutional framework for solutions. We therefore advocate a parity law, including at the federal citizens‘ councils, including direct democratic procedures for indivi- level, and will introduce corresponding changes to the law. To make dual consultation results. Randomly selected people who live in Ger- political engagement easier for women requires measures and provi- many and are at least 16 years old will provide advice on a specific sions that facilitate the entry into politics and the shaping of politics issue in a defined period at the initiative of the government, parlia- by women. ment or a citizens‘ initiative. They will develop recommendations for action and feed into public debate and decision-making in parlia- Voting rights for young people ment. Free, equal and fair advice must be guaranteed through advice from civil society and academia, among others. Furthermore, we will Democracy lives by being shaped by and through the commitment introduce a digital portal, such as is already successfully in use in of all citizens, from childhood up to old age. Many political decisions Baden-Württemberg, for active participation in the legislative process today are decisive for the future of young people, and many young and develop the right of petition into an easily accessible instrument people take on responsibility for society early on. If young people for better involvement in the democratic process. We want to promote have democratic experiences in their daily life and can exercise their participation and political education as an important interdisciplinary rights, this strengthens democracy and makes it more future-proof. To task, including at the local level. be able to forge the broadest possible alliances for a constitutional reduction in the voting age, we want to reduce the voting age for Public service broadcasting for all and a varied media landscape elections for the Federal Lower House of Parliament and European elections to 16 in the coming legislative period. On the basis of an Critical independent journalism is a pillar of our democracy. We stand evaluation of the voting age of 16, we want to possibly reduce the for pluralistic, critical public service broadcasting for all that is inde- voting age further. pendent of the state and, likewise, for quality and diversity in the private and non-profit media landscape. To ensure that public service Chapter 5 Chapter broadcasting is set up to be strong and future-proof, we will work 5 Chapter for functional funding that follows a defined broadcasting mandate. Because it is funded by everyone, it must also reach everyone. Coming from its special position and the requirement to depict the variety of living environments, opinions and interests of the population, the need to reform it also arises. The digitalisation of public service broadcasting must be driven forward and its existing services need to be examined. For this, we want to launch an initiative together

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with the states and start a social debate. We advocate public service perpetrator cannot be determined. Each person has the right to their broadcasting councils that better depict the diversity of our society own opinion, but not to their own facts. Special due diligence must today and are more assertive and more removed from broadcasters apply to pornographic platforms that host user-generated content and the state. Public service media libraries should be linked wit- to protect people whose image is shown there against their will. To hin Europe and permanently accessible, while adequately remune- deal with disinformation, but also for legal control of the providers rating creators. Local media need funding that is coordinated with as a whole, we want to better structure oversight nationally and in the states and arranged independently of the federal government. Europe, with a joint media authority for the federal states. We reject Quality journalism needs better framework conditions, for example any obligation to use upload filters. through improvements as regards source protection and the right to information or the opening up of the Artists‘ Social Security Fund to Software for the general public journalists along with a requirement for media platforms to make contributions. Non-profit journalism requires legal certaintyt. Our everyday lives are increasingly characterised by participation in and access to software. Free and open software forms the basis for Combatting online hate crime countless applications, whether they are digital learning platforms, Digital platforms and applications must serve people and not the secure applications for homework, for strengthening IT security with other way round. It is important to us to strengthen user rights and good encryption or secure and simple voting methods for associa- democratic discourse and at the same time maintain the balance tion and party work. It plays a decisive role in more and more soci- between the protection of personality right and freedom of speech. ally relevant areas and is the basis for our requirements in terms of We want to combat online hate crime and the deliberate spreading openness, participation and security. However, the developers often of fake news more effectively. We want to develop an effective legal lack support to keep these permanently up to date in terms of the framework for this. Those affected must be able to defend them- latest standards of technology and design them to be user-friendly, selves quickly and effectively against online attacks. We want to accessible and inclusive. We therefore advocate the creation of an achieve this by the ambitious design and then quick implementation independent, public support foundation that promotes socially rele- of the EU Digital Services Act. We stand for effective handling of user vant, free and open software, the results of which are available to complaints, an improvement in investigations and prosecutions and society, academia, schools, business and the administration and are the enforcement of civil rights. For this, we need law enforcement fully accessible to all. Continuous end-to-end encryption protects authorities to be provided with the best possible staff and techno- basic rights, creates trust in digital applications and must become logy. Staff must be well-trained and be able to work on the basis of standard in all public IT projects. clear legal requirements. Platform operators must live up to their major responsibility, across Europe. They must not undermine exis- A democracy promotion law for a strong civil society Chapter 5 Chapter ting rights, are liable for content and must safeguard basic rights 5 Chapter when moderating content. An option with regards to decisions on A lively civil society is fundamental to political debate in our demo- what content must have no place on digital platforms could be the cracy. Dedicated people involved in initiatives, organisations, associa- targeted use of representative civil society platform councils. Major tions or NGOs strengthen cohesion, help to put important issues, such providers should contribute to the independent advisory services as the fight against racism, on the public agenda and also play their for those affected by hate and incitement by paying a levy. We want part in policy formation. We will make every effort to ensure that they to combine this into a law for protection against digital violence are able to carry out their work well-protected, without intimidation which includes the possibility of proceeding against accounts if the or criminalisation. With a law for the promotion of democracy, we

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want to safeguard their dedication and that of democracy enhancing to civic engagement and expand educational opportunities for civi- initiatives and organisations in the long term with non-project-rela- cally engaged people, as well as reorganising funding policy. We want ted, non-bureaucratic financial support. We want to regulate the work to further develop the German Foundation for Civic Engagement and of the political foundations in a more binding way. We want to ensure Volunteer Work into a real support foundation that supports organisa- that they are oriented towards the values of the Basic Law and create tions locally, in a decentralised manner. Together with the states and transparency, including in their relationships with the parties. We will local authorities, we want to introduce a civic engagement card that create a separate legal basis for this. provides discounts on visits to swimming pools and cultural institutions or the use of local public transport. We want to gradually align the Reforming non-profit status tax allowances for trainers and volunteers.

All citizens should be able to participate equally in policy formation Expanding voluntary services and making them possible for all in our society. Non-profit status is an important status as it generally opens up access in the first instance in many places. We will therefore Voluntary services strengthen cohesion and promote active participa- provide clarity and legal certainty in the law on non-profit organisati- tion in our society. Anyone who wishes to, should be able to have gua- ons to ensure that initiatives and organisations remain independent. ranteed entry into a voluntary service in Germany or Europe. We want to They should also be able to realise their non-profit goals through poli- double young people‘s voluntary services (such as the Voluntary Social tical statements and activities such as studies and demonstrations. Year and the Voluntary Ecological Year) and the Federal Voluntary Ser- Not only promotion of the democratic state but also the promotion vice to 200,000 annual places. Voluntary services should be more fully of fundamental principles should be clearly not-for-profit. We want to funded so that young people can take part regardless of their parents‘ recognise and strengthen the non-profit status of additional purposes, income. To achieve this, we want to raise the pocket money rates to a such as peace, the enforcement of national and international basic standard level and allow free local public transport. The framework and human rights, the rule of law, the enforcement of the social state conditions should become more inclusive so that anyone, regardless of imperative and, in general, equal participation and the combatting of whether young or old, can find a suitable voluntary service placement discrimination. We will ensure that associations can actively partici- for themselves, whether as an orientation period at the start of their pate in social debates with the introduction of a democracy clause. working life or after they have finished working. We want to repeal the reversal of the burden of proof in Section 51(3) of the Fiscal Code. We will ensure more transparency with a non-profit register and easily manageable transparency obligations as well as We will shape the diverse immigration society with rules on the disclosure of the donation structure. Making naturalisation easier Chapter 5 Chapter Civic engagement and volunteering as a pillar of our society 5 Chapter Citizenship ensures a permanent bond of legal equality, participa- Civic engagement and volunteering support our society in a multitude tion and belonging. Anyone who is born in Germany should receive of ways. The task of the state is to enable, promote and strengthen German citizenship if one parent lawfully has their habitual resi- civic engagement and volunteering. This also increasingly includes dence in Germany. Citizenship must not be revoked, as also shown digital forms of volunteering, as they enable networking over long by the lesson of the injustices of National Socialism. For people who distances or if something else stands in the way of physical engage- have lived here for many years and have become part of this society, ment. To this end, we want to dismantle the bureaucratic obstacles naturalisation should be possible earlier. Everyone should be able to

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make an application for naturalisation after five years of residence Integration only succeeds if you‘re on the inside – language, in Germany; a speedy and simplified naturalisation procedure is also access and participation right from the start needed for recognised refugees. We want to abolish the requirement to choose in the Nationality Act and recognise multiple citizens- Arriving in a diverse immigration society is a two-way process with hip. We want to reverse the hollowing out of the Nationality Act the goal of creating equal access and participation opportunities in and make the naturalisation process less bureaucratic. Obstacles in all areas of life. It puts requirements on those who come to us as well establishing identity that are not in the hands of the persons to be as on those who have already lived here for a long time and only naturalised must not be held against them. We want to make entry succeeds when everyone comes together and treads the same path. for binational families and couples, regardless of whether with or The basis for living together is the values of the Basic Law. Access to without a marriage certificate, unbureaucratic and fair. Long-term and participation in language courses is essential, which is why we prospects are needed to build a life in Germany. stand for all newly arriving migrants and refugees having the right to free-of-charge access to tailor-made, easy-to-reach and federally A modern immigration law for a diverse immigration society funded language and integration courses. In particular, we want to ensure the accessibility of courses for women and also develop offers Germany is a country of immigrants; however an active immigration for people with learning difficulties. This is because, at the moment, policy is still lacking, as well as an immigration law that actually pro- this is only possible with difficulty and at a cost for many people, for motes immigration rather than making it more complicated. We want to instance, for family members arriving later or EU citizens. In addi- enact a modern immigration law that creates new entry routes for edu- tion, we want to preserve the expanded range of advanced language cational and work immigration – even for people who cannot provide courses developed after 2015. Just as important for successful integ- evidence of their talents and skills through formal or recognised educa- ration are decentralised accommodation and an autonomous life in tional qualifications – one that offers transparent, unbureaucractic and one‘s own home, a broad range of advice services, especially for fami- fair procedures and that takes global and regional needs into account. lies, as well as non-discriminatory access to health and social benefits For this, the aim is to introduce a points-based talent card based on the and to nurseries, educational institutions, training and work, in other annual labour requirements. We will simplify educational immigration words participation in cultural and social life. In this way, targeted via grants and training visas and also the requirements for a perma- support strengthens cohesion in society as a whole. We want to set nent residence permit and the recognition of professional qualificati- up a local integration fund at the European level so as to directly ons acquired abroad. In addition, we will end the automatic loss of the support arrivals in local authorities throughout Europe. This should residence permit after a six-month stay abroad. For people who are in be used, among other things, to strengthen and develop immigration Germany without secure residence status, but who are integrated into advice centres, to fund interpreting services in the community, to pro- the German labour market or whose qualifications match the needs of mote civil society support structures and to secure structural relief Chapter 5 Chapter the labour market, there should be the opportunity to move onto a dif- in the EU for the local authorities that are willing to accept refugees. 5 Chapter ferent track. We will expand and consolidate well-functioning concepts Businesses that give refugees the chance of training or employment for work immigration, such as the Western Balkans Regulation. need corresponding support and funding. For recognised refugees, we want to reduce the hurdles in terms of freedom of movement within the European Union.

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Fair and transparent asylum procedures Moving away from tolerated stays

We want asylum procedures in Germany to be set up to be fair and More than 200,000 people – among them many children and young transparent with legal certainty and for decisions to be reached wit- people – are living in a state of lack of prospects and legal uncertainty hin a reasonable time. For this, the identification of special protection because they only have tolerated status. This is not good either for those needs must occur before the hearing. In particular, consideration of affected or for social cohesion. Legal uncertainty and a lack of partici- gender-based persecution suffered and associated advice must be gua- pation opportunities make it extremely difficult to properly arrive and ranteed in the asylum procedure. We want to ensure that a decision on find a home in Germany. We want to reduce the number of people who residence status is made quickly so that people can have certainty at an have to go from one temporary suspension of deportation (or tolerated early stage. This includes having sufficient staff in the Federal Office for stay) to the next, to zero if possible. These people need a secure right of Migration and Refugees as well as effective quality management. We residence after five years of residence. Adolescents, young people and want to ensure independent non-governmental advice on the asylum families with under-aged children should get a residence permit after procedure for all asylum seekers, from arrival up to the conclusion of three years. In cases in which people cannot get a national passport the asylum procedure and reverse the increased length of stay of refu- despite proven serious efforts, we want to issue a passport replacement gees in reception centres, which was extended to a possible 18 months, identity card if those affected are born in Germany and their identity has to a maximum of three months. We reject the AnkER (arrival, decision- been established. By converting tolerated stays for training and work making, local distribution and repatriation) Centres in their current into rights of residence, we will provide people with reliable access to form. Afterwards, decentralised living should always take precedence. training and the labour market and ensure planning security for bus- We want to guarantee the right of children, regardless of their prospect inesses. Victims of human trafficking should be given a secure right of of staying, to have access to nurseries, schools and other educational residence. People who are not granted a right of residence after careful opportunities. We will end the extensive unwarranted revocation checks examination of the legal asylum and residence requirements and after by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees and optimise asylum all the legal protection options have been exhausted and in whose case process legislation. Applications for family reunification in the context there are no obstacles to deportation, must leave the country quickly. of the Dublin Regulation must be approved quickly. We want to abolish We want to provide comprehensive, independent advice and support the Asylum Seekers Benefits Act – and thereby the constitutionally during this process. Every deportation is linked to major human hards- unjustified unequal treatment of refugees, that makes it more difficult hip. Deportations, for example via readmission agreements, are the last to truly arrive and participate. We want to abolish anti-integration legal resort if repatriation is rejected; voluntary departures always have prio- provisions such as work bans and blanket residency requirements as rity. Detention without a crime for the purpose of enforcing departure well as benefit cuts. We want to reverse the undermining of the right to is a major infringement of the constitutionally guaranteed right to free- residence and right to asylum carried out in recent years. In particular, dom. Therefore, due regard for the division of authority principle (Tren- Chapter 5 Chapter we want to guarantee the protection of refugees who have experienced nungsgebot) and the granting of legal assistance must be guaranteed. 5 Chapter human rights violations or are severely ill. We reject the designation of We will end deportations to war and crisis countries and reinstate the “safer” countries of origin or third countries – including at the European ban on deportations to Syria and Afghanistan nationwide. We stand for level. We want to eliminate airport proceedings and immediate refusal no cooperation with Syrian authorities with regard to deportations and of entry at the German internal borders. A loss of work, training or study ending the deportation partnership with Afghanistan. The designation of places due to the pandemic must not lead to disadvantages in terms of safer areas must not serve as a basis for justifying repatriations to unsafe residence rights. countries. No deportations must be permitted to countries for which the Federal Foreign Office has issued a travel warning due to Covid-19.

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present a nationwide cross-agency “Living Diversity!” national action We will put a strong focus on feminism, queer plan for the acceptance of sexual and gender diversity – with the aim of guaranteeing equal LGBTIQ* participation in social life to pro- politics and gender equality mote the acceptance of diversity. This also includes measures for LGBTIQ*-inclusive social policy and institutional and project funding Equality in all areas of life for LGBTIQ* associations, organisations and foundations. We want to remove the discriminatory ban on donating blood for gay and bise- Feminism takes everyone into account and creates autonomy, parti- xual men and transgender people. LGBTIQ* people are particularly cipation and equity. The goal is a society in which everyone can live affected by sexual violence. We will resolutely fight hate crime direc- autonomously, regardless of gender and women can also equitably ted at LGBTIQ* people. To protect and empower queer young people, cocreate everywhere – from the world of work to the parliaments. especially in rural areas, we want to provide information for young This is a mission for all genders. This also requires men who stand people about the diversity of sexual orientations and gender identi- up for a society in which power, opportunities and responsibility are ties with a nationwide awareness campaign and raise awareness of shared equally and sexism is resolutely combatted. Gender equality homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and queerphobia. Together with is an interdisciplinary task that we think of intersectionally. We want the states, we will ensure that gender and sexual variety and diver- to examine whether a measure or law advances gender equality and sity are reflected in curricula and education plans and that these are intervene accordingly where it stands in contradiction. The awarding implemented consistently. Queerphobic crimes should be recorded of public contracts should also take into account gender equity crite- separately in the statistics. ria. We will develop the newly created Federal Foundation for Equa- lity to an effective, reliably funded and independent institution that Securing women‘s shelters provides verified knowledge on the living circumstances of all genders and develops and combines effective measures for equality, and Each person has the right to physical integrity. It is the duty of the makes them available to business, politics and the public. The social state to protect women from gender-based violence. Women‘s shelters sciences and gender studies make an indispensable contribution in play a key role in this. Therefore, significantly more women‘s shelter this respect. We need a binding equality strategy that encompasses places must be created, including in rural areas. Because every woman all areas of life and politics, works across agencies and translates its affected by violence, whether with or without children, needs a place insights into realisable goals. It is time for a feminist government in to go to and protection – regardless of her legal residence status, her which people of all genders stand up equally for gender equality. living situation or whether she has an impairment. We will provide security for those affected with a legal entitlement to protection from Combatting gender-based violence gender-based violence via a cash benefit from the federal govern- Chapter 5 Chapter ment, regardless of their income, and will improve access to protec- 5 Chapter Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, intersex and queer people should tive facilities and their services for all women. For their part, states be able to live their lives with self-determination and free of discri- and local authorities must continue to fulfil their financial responsi- mination. To this end and to combat legal discrimination as well as bility. Affected women who receive social benefits should not be put disadvantages and hostility in everyday life, we will send a strong in a worse position for the time spent in a women‘s shelter. We need signal and ensure the protection of people based on their sexual women‘s shelters that can take in children, even if they are older. Men and gender identity by means of an extension of Article 3 Paragraph who have become the victim of partner violence also need support 3 of the Basic Law. Together with community organisations, we will and a safe refuge. We want to expand this provision. In addition, inter-

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sectional protection concepts and refuges, including in particular for Self-determination through healthcare provision queer and non-binary people, must be developed and provided. We will promote accessibility in women‘s shelters and counselling faci- All people must be able to make decisions for themselves with lities so that protection options are also available for women with regard to their body and their life. For this, good healthcare is disabilities affected by violence. necessary, including secure access and comprehensive information on abortion. The decision of whether a woman terminates Protection from coercion and exploitation: enabling autonomy a pregnancy or not is hers alone. At this time, good advice and healthcare structures are crucial. We are fighting for ample local Human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation is an abhor- provision of doctors, practices and clinics that carry out aborti- rent crime that we will resolutely combat using the means available ons. The topic must be integrated into the training of doctors in under criminal law, but also preventively through joint European action, line with internationally recognised standards. In addition to pro- as well as information, protection and help for the victims. To this end, fessional medical care, good advice services are also important. we also want to establish a national action plan against human traffi- We will therefore protect the broad range of family planning and cking. Simply deporting victims of human trafficking is wrong. Instead, advice centres and expand voluntary advice services. Destigma- their willingness to report and testify would be increased by a perma- tisation and decriminalisation of voluntary terminations of preg- nent right of residence and prosecution of the perpetrators would be nancy is required to permanently guarantee provision, as well as made easier. Forced marriages are human rights violations. Everyone a general assumption of costs. This is only possible if voluntary who is threatened by this needs help and protection as well as good termination of pregnancy is no longer regulated in the Criminal advice from reliably funded advice centres. Female genital mutilation Code (Section 218 and Section 219), but elsewhere instead. Preg- is a massive violation of physical integrity. It is crucial that we help nant women who seek advice, as well as the advice centres and those who are affected and protect them, including through inter- doctors, must be protected with nationally embedded protection national awareness and assistance campaigns. However, in Germany from hostility and pavement harassment. In the case of an unwan- too, we need a strategy to combat it. We want to better support civil ted pregnancy, the best possible access to information must be society organisations that are engaged in this area; the girls‘ contacts guaranteed. To protect doctors from the threat of charges, it is as well as teaching staff and social services should be made aware especially necessary to remove Section 219 a from the Criminal and trained. People working in prostitution need rights and protection Code as quickly as possible. As a first step, the costs for contracep- – including from stigmatisation and criminalisation. We will evaluate tives prescribed by doctors to recipients of government transfer and revise the Prostitute Protection Act with the goal of improving payments and low earners must be covered with minimum bure- working conditions in legal prostitution. To enable them to carry on aucracy. Going forward, free-of-charge and easy access to contra- their work safely, prostitution sites must be more strictly monitored. ceptives should apply for everyone. The easiest way would be to Chapter 5 Chapter We will expand and financially support voluntary, low-threshold and regulate this access via the health insurance funds. 5 Chapter multilingual advice services. We will support people who want to get out of prostitution with individual help and advice during the reorientation. This can succeed through further training, financial support and help with a placement in gainful employment outside prostitution.

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Combatting queerphobia that were carried out as medically necessary should be recorded centrally, based on strict data protection, to achieve better tra- Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transsexual, intersex and queer people should ceability for those affected and a better data basis. With regard to be able to live their lives with self-determination and free of discri- healthcare services as well as gender reassignment surgeries and mination. To this end and to combat legal discrimination as well as hormone therapies, self-determination has to be ensured. We want disadvantages and hostility in everyday life, we will send a strong sig- to enshrine the right to gender reassignment measures in law nal and ensure the protection of people based on their sexual and and ensure that the costs are covered by the healthcare system. gender identity by means of an extension of Article 3 Paragraph 3 of We will set up a compensation fund for the victims amongst the the Basic Law. Together with community organisations, we will present group of transgender and intersex people whose physical integ- a nationwide cross-agency “Living Diversity!” national action plan for rity was violated or whose marriages were compulsorily annulled. the acceptance of sexual and gender diversity – with the aim of guaranteeing equal LGBTIQ* participation in social life to promote the acceptance of diversity. This also includes measures for LGBTIQ*-inclu- We will strengthen security and civil rights sive social policy and institutional and project funding for LGBTIQ* associations, organisations and foundations. We want to remove the Security for all and a well-equipped police force discriminatory ban on donating blood for gay and bisexual men and closely connected to citizens transgender people. LGBTIQ* people are particularly affected by sexual violence. We will resolutely fight hate crime directed at LGBTIQ* people. Germany is basically a safe country. This is partly due to the good To protect and empower queer young people, especially in rural areas, work of the police. We want it to stay that way. However, theft, we want to provide information for young people about the diversity burglaries, violent offences, hate crimes and organised crime place of sexual orientations and gender identities with a nationwide awa- a heavy burden on victims. We want to strengthen the police in reness campaign and raise awareness of homophobia, biphobia, trans- their tasks such as prevention, awareness-raising and prosecution phobia and queerphobia. Together with the states, we will ensure that as well as the protection of basic rights, in both urban and rural gender and sexual variety and diversity are reflected in curricula and areas and by both analogue and digital means. We want to reverse education plans and that these are implemented consistently. Queer- the previous staff reductions in the Federal Police and the Federal phobic crimes should be recorded separately in the statistics. Criminal Police Office with a campaign to fill vacancies and, at the same time, enable specialised training and study courses. We want Guaranteeing self-determination and repealing the police to reflect the diversity of the population. Police officers the Transsexuals Act deserve our appreciation, along with good working conditions and efficient structures within the public authorities. Secure and effi- Chapter 5 Chapter With a law on self-determination, we will ensure that the outda- cient data processing combined with mobile IT and clearly regu- 5 Chapter ted Transsexuals Act is finally repealed. We will make it possible lated competences are basic requirements for modern police work. for people to change their gender classification and name at the However, good police actions cannot be a replacement for solving request of the person concerned without the need for obligatory social problems. We will therefore support and expand cooperation psychological reports. We will reinforce the disclosure ban and with civil bodies and external experts. penalise deliberate violations against this. We commit to prohibiting all unnecessary operations and treatments on intersex children and closing loopholes in the corresponding laws. Operations

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The special responsibility of the police Creating a European criminal investigation office and pursuing organised crime We want a society in which everyone can live freely and safely. Safety must be guaranteed equally everywhere. We do not treat freedom and Numerous crimes take place across borders; organised crime and Isla- civil rights as aspects of domestic policy that can be ignored, but as its mist and right-wing extremist terror networks in particular do not stop key protected assets. Safety must not be a question of social class, ori- at national borders. To protect citizens and defend of our freedom, we gin, gender, sexual identity, appearance or place of residence. For the need stronger cross-border cooperation by the police and the judiciary: police to accomplish their complex tasks, they must be able to rely on through joint European police teams, by upgrading Europol to a Euro- the trust of the entire population. As an executive organ of the state pean criminal investigation office, and through closer judicial coopera- monopoly on the use of force, the police also have a special respon- tion between the member states, as well as with the help of Eurojust and, sibility. This is consistent with the introduction of an individual but to combat fraud involving EU funds, with the European Anti-Fraud Office, anonymised identification system for the Federal Police and the crea- OLAF, and the European Public Prosecutor‘s Office, using the most up-to- tion of a new post of independent federal police commissioner with date analysis methods. Due to the increasing networking of European comprehensive competences, to whom the police as well as citizens databases, high data protection standards and an improvement in cross- can turn in the event of problems or identified grievances. Crimes in border legal protection are essential. This cooperation requires an inde- office and deaths in police custody must be clarified with no ifs or buts. pendent judiciary and fair criminal procedures in all EU member states. We will shape the powers of inspection of the Federal Police so that they no longer lead to racial profiling and test out the introduction Reorganisation of the Federal Office for of so-called ticket systems to make the reasons for police inspections the Protection of the Constitution transparent for those affected. Police officers should be able to and obliged to undertake further training, even after their initial profes- A great deal of trust in the Federal Office for the Protection of the Cons- sional training. Important further training areas are, for example, dea- titution has been lost in the past, especially in relation to the NSU-Com- ling with people with mental illnesses as well as anti-discrimination plex. Changes have been seen here, especially in terms of new staff; and the risk of racial profiling. Particular stress factors while in service however a new structure must also follow that will provide an impro- should be followed up regularly, for example in the context of super- vement in the analytical capacity of the Federal Office for the Protec- vision. A nationwide, external specialist agency for pastoral care and tion of the Constitution. The expertise on anti-constitutional activities ethical training should be established. The already existing ZeBuS already existing today in academia and civil society must be used more (Centre for Ethical Education and Pastoral Care for the Police in NRW) systematically. This expertise should be incorporated, and strengthened could serve as a model here. Independent academic studies on right- nationwide and permanently promoted by a law for the promotion of wing extremism, antisemitism and racism in the security agencies democracy. We want to structurally reorganise the Federal Office for the Chapter 5 Chapter and law enforcement authorities are long overdue. We want to make Protection of the Constitution: on the one hand with an independent Ins- 5 Chapter it easier to carry out police research and open up the police more for titute for the Protection of the Constitution working academically from this. Rational security policy requires a solid evidence base and clear public sources, and the other hand, creating a reduced Federal Office for responsibilities. For this reason, we will reintroduce the periodic secu- Threat Identification and Counterintelligence, which works with intelli- rity report, which provided valuable information in the past. gence gathering means compliant with the law, clearly demarcated from police tasks. This also requires closer and more effective parliamentary scrutiny. To win back trust, we will reinforce the oversight of the work of the intelligence agencies and legally regulate the use of human sources.

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Combatting right-wing extremism and breaking up the networks Protection from terrorism

There are more than 32,000 right-wing extremists in Germany, who Any type of politically motivated violence endangers our constitu- are networking more and more, including transnationally, despite tional state. Public safety in Germany is threatened in particular by their exclusionary nationalistic ideology. Combatting right-wing ext- terrorism by violent right-wing extremists and Islamists. To protect an remist structures - including within the security agencies – must open society, our democracy and its people, we must resolutely fight be a priority for all security services. This requires a combination terrorism – by means of effective, intersectionally oriented prevention of prevention, protection and sanctions. Through a nationwide network, better networking of the security agencies and rigorous moni- worked prevention strategy, we want to significantly expand pre- toring of so-called “potentially dangerous persons”. This requires an vention work and also focus on the anti-feminist and nationalistic agreed European definition of the term “potentially dangerous person” dimension of right-wing extremism. The latter includes, for example, with legally verifiable classification and non-classification criteria. the right-wing extremist and violent Ülkücü Movement, commonly Potentially dangerous persons must be closely monitored. The goal is known as the “Grey Wolves”, which we want to push back with all for open arrest warrants against potentially dangerous persons to be available political and legal means. Civil society groups carry out consistently enforced and ongoing procedures to be merged across important work in providing information about and pushing back national borders. Cooperation and communication between the secu- against right-wing extremist structures. They should be supported rity agencies, including across national borders, mus be reformed, and structurally and in the long term through a law for the promotion of this includes creating legal bases for the counterterrorism centres, democracy. We will initiate independent academic studies on racism GTAZ and GETZ. We reject infringements of basic rights on the basis of and right-wing extremism in the various security agencies, record classification as a so-called potentially dangerous person outside the hate violence and deal with it robustly. Right-wing extremists must field of counter-terrorism. We will also expand exit programmes for be removed from security agencies more consistently and quickly people from the right-wing extremist and Islamist scenes as well as than has been the case up to now. We want to create the legal con- support and counselling services for victims and their relatives. A nati- ditions for this. The series of murders by the right-wing terrorist NSU onal, professional prevention and deradicalisation network is required as well as other racist and right-wing extremist terrorist acts – for – similar to the civil-society organisations that have already achieved example the murders in Hanau – have still not been fully processed. better networking than the political levels in the federal government For this reason, we will establish an archive about right-wing terro- and states. We want to reinforce prevention and deradicalisation in rism, modelled on the Stasi Records Agency, in which the documents prisons. To make attacks more difficult, we will increase efforts to and results of the 13 parliamentary investigation committees on the track down the sale of illegal weapons, including and especially in NSU will also be evaluated and which will accessible to academics, online marketplaces. journalists and civil society in the long term. We stand in solidarity Chapter 5 Chapter with all victims and people affected by right-wing terrorist, right- Fewer guns for more safety 5 Chapter wing extremist and racist attacks. We therefore want to establish a fund at the federal level for victims and people affected, in particu- There are over five million legal guns in Germany. Every year, people lar, by right-wing extremist, racist or Islamist violence. die at the hands of legal guns, either while handling them or as a result of criminal offences. These range from domestic violence to mass shootings, and right up to extremistic attacks. These types of criminal offences are not necessarily committed by the legal gun owners, but also by people who unlawfully gain access to these weapons because

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they have the relevant access to these, for example in a shared hou- brave people to bring them to light. These whistleblowers must be sehold. Getting a valid picture about the dimensions and causes of better protected, in the interests of us all, from reprisals at home these types of criminal offences requires improved collection of cri- and abroad as well as the health, financial and social ramifications minal statistics. It must be documented whether a criminal offence of providing the information. We will achieve this with a Whistle- was committed with a legal or illegal firearm, whether a shot was blower Protection Act that implements the EU Whistleblowing Direc- fired during the offence and whether the suspect was entitled to own tive ambitiously and comprehensively across all national law. This the weapon or not. Everyone who dies by a gun is one too many. This defines a two-step reporting procedure as well as a compensation is why we want to gradually end the availability of lethal firearms – fund which will minimise personal risk. The aim is to reduce the fear except in the case of hunters who could not fulfil their duties without of economic and personal damage as an obstacle to whistleblowing these weapons. In the area of shooting sports too, we are in dialogue and to encourage potential whistleblowers to come forward. We want with sports shooters regarding the migration to non-lethal firearms. whistleblowers like Edward Snowden, whom we have to thank for exposing worldwide spying and mass surveillance by numerous intel- Making civil protection crisis-proof ligence agencies, to be able to live freely and safely in a democratic country and offer this to them in Germany too. Germany has an outstanding network of players who are capable of acting in a crisis. The mainly voluntary members of the aid orga- Targeted defence against specific threats nisations, fire brigades and the Federal Agency for Technical Relief form the backbone of this. The climate crisis and the challenges of A functioning, democratic constitutional state must guarantee safety our modern society are putting this system under pressure. Cross- and safeguard the civil liberties that constitute it. We stand for a border disasters in particular, such as pandemics, floods, forest fires rational security and criminal policy that protects legal interests or extensive power outages have enormous potential for damage and from real interference, protects against specific threats in a targeted require coordinated action when individual states reach their limits. and event-driven manner and guarantees proportionate prosecution We want the Federal Government to engage more here and for the instead of placing the population under general suspicion by means Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance to be given of sweeping mass surveillance. Security laws must be subject to scru- more competences. We want to further strengthen the engagement of tiny, and in future based on valid empirical evidence, and must be voluntary and impromptu helpers and make it fit for digital areas, for independently evaluated regularly with regard to their effectiveness. example via a cyber aid organisation. In addition, we are committed We will set up a total account for surveillance, which will be carried to strengthening public health protection to ensure interdisciplinary forward on an ongoing basis. We reject the use of biometric identifi- combatting of future pandemics. cation in public spaces, such as for example face recognition, as well as the indiscriminate expansion of video surveillance, groundless Chapter 5 Chapter Protection for whistleblowers data retention, general back doors in digital appliances and appli- 5 Chapter cations and the infiltration of technical devices (computer and net- Emissions manipulation, irregularities in care institutions, the sale of work surveillance and source telecommunications surveillance). In Facebook user information – hardly any of the major business scan- addition, an obligation to report security gaps and actively work to dals from the past few years would have become public were it not remove them should be introduced. Companies must not be obliged for the evidence provided from within the companies. Irregularities in to endanger IT security and network integrity at the expense of the companies, public authorities and other areas, such as doping in sport general public. We will argue for targeted police work, well equipped and criminal activities in companies and public authorities require both in terms of technology and staff, based on a clear legal basis.

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This will also provide greater legal certainty for the work of the pub- even in cases where the damage is relatively minor but takes place on lic authorities and create trust. We want to strengthen digital exper- a massive scale. The collective legal action procedures introduced up tise in the security agencies so that the existing possibles for crime to now, such as the Model Declaratory Action, which is only available prevention and investigation are applied effectively. to consumers, and the Capital Markets Model Case Act, are insufficient. The increasingly favoured and often effective assertion of legal rights through legal tech companies can, on the other hand, help many peo- We will guarantee the rule of law ple to obtain justice quickly and in an uncomplicated manner. We therefore to want integrate collective legal protection into the Code of and strengthen consumer protection Civil Procedure in a generalised and standardised manner and enable individual claims to be combined in a class action. For better enfor- Robust action against corruption cement of the law, entry barriers should be reduced, the procedures simplified and advisory assistance and legal aid reinforced. We will Corruption, tax evasion, money laundering and manipulation of the promptly implement the EU Class Action Directive in national law, in financial market are legal violations that can have devastating effects a consumer-friendly manner. The effects of differences in the financial on competition and the free market, as well as for the environment, strength of the parties, possibilities for legal delays and the influence people and human rights. Economic crimes make up the bulk of finan- of actually effected third parties (insurance companies, for example) cial injuries recorded by the police. We will therefore hold companies on judicial proceedings must be minimised. to account more effectively in future if they break the law. The aim is to merge and supplement the already existing dispersed regulations Reasonable and proportionate criminal penalties into one distinct law against economic crime. To prevent legal violations by companies going unpunished due to organised irresponsibility, In family law proceedings, decisions are made that can have significant it should in future also be possible to link this to organisational cul- consequences with respect to the future lives of children and their pability. We want to strengthen the duty of proof of the legal source families. Domestic violence must be taken into account in decisions of large payments. Penalties must be effective, appropriate and act on visiting rights and custody. We have to strengthen child protec- as a deterrent, in accordance with EU requirements, for example by tion in court and take into account the opinions of children. Hearings allowing unlawful profits for recovery to be estimated and providing must be designed to be child-friendly and, where possible, repeated the necessary resources for this. We want to extend the list of penal- questioning must be avoided. Family law proceedings require suitable ties to include further measures, such as disqualification from public interdisciplinary services, such as the Barnahus children‘s houses, for procurements, damage reparation, as well as mandatory precautions example. We will make advanced training compulsory for family judges, for companies to prevent criminal offences, and to introduce a public but this will also be taken into consideration in the judges‘ workload. Chapter 5 Chapter penalty register. We also want to create an option to lodge an appeal at the Federal 5 Chapter Court of Justice in parent and child cases. In criminal proceedings, we Legal protection for everyone, introduction of class actions want to further strengthen children‘s rights as victims. Sexual abuse of children must be rigorously investigated and prosecuted, primar- People have to be able to effectively assert their rights, even in rela- ily through more staff – including, in particular, those specialising in tion to economically stronger parties, for example in cases like Die- online crime – in the police and in public prosecutor‘s offices. selgate. To this end, we will introduce class actions so that people can effectively obtain justice and, for example, receive compensation,

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Improving child protection in court The right to repair

In family law proceedings, decisions are made that can have signi- From washing machines to mobile phones – many appliances end ficant consequences with respect to the future lives of children and up in the rubbish after only a short time because they break quickly, their families. Domestic violence must be taken into account in decisi- cannot be repaired, or software updates are no longer offered. This is ons on visiting rights and custody. We have to strengthen child protec- annoying for consumers, wastes valuable resources and causes moun- tion in court and take into account the opinions of children. Hearings tains of electrical waste. We are therefore standing for quality and must be designed to be child-friendly and, where possible, repeated durability. With the right to repair, we want to avoid electrical waste questioning must be avoided. Family law proceedings require suitable in the first place. This will be based on compulsory design specificati- interdisciplinary services, such as the Barnahus children‘s houses, for ons so that electronic devices are designed in a way that makes them example. We will make advanced training compulsory for family judges, as durable, repairable and recyclable as possible. At the same time, it but this will also be taken into consideration in the judges‘ workload. must not only be a question of a device‘s hardware. Replacement parts We also want to create an option to lodge an appeal at the Federal and software updates must be available at a reasonable price for the Court of Justice in parent and child cases. In criminal proceedings, we duration of it‘s expected lifetime at least. A label should indicate how want to further strengthen children‘s rights as victims. Sexual abuse long replacement parts and software updates will be provided for of children must be rigorously investigated and prosecuted, primar- comparison. By doubling the guarantee periods to four years, exten- ily through more staff – including, in particular, those specialising in ding the reversal of the burden of proof to two years and requiring online crime – in the police and in public prosecutor‘s offices. manufacturers to specify the expected lifetime, we want to ensure that devices are built to have a longer lifetime. In this way, we will Protection from hidden costs, just one click to cancel online make full use of the scope of the EU guidelines and, at the same time, commit to more consumer protection in the EU. Additionally, we will You can conclude online contracts with a click, but cancellation must introduce the reduced VAT rate for repair services and advocate for be in writing. Also, long minimum terms and automatic renewal of the extension of this to the repair of electrical devices at the EU level. contracts by a year are anything but consumer-friendly. Consumers are still being taken by surprise on the telephone or at the door, Financial advice in the interests of customersv and unwanted contracts are being foisted on them. We want to protect consumers from contract traps and make online cancellation as Often, financial and insurance products are sold to customers that simple as online ordering. Just as there is an order button, there must do not meet their personal needs. These products are often good for also be a cancel button as well as a mandatory confirmation of receipt the profits of banks and insurance companies but bad for customers. for online or email cancellations. Contract durations and automatic We want to turn financial consultancy on its head. To do this, we will Chapter 5 Chapter renewals must be reduced – for the benefit of consumer protection create a standard, transparent job description for financial advisers. 5 Chapter and competition. We want to halve the maximum minimum contract All agents and advisers should be overseen in future by the Federal term of two years, and reduce tacit renewals from one year to one Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin). We want to get away from month. Contracts concluded by telephone should only be valid if they commission-based advice and gradually move over to independent are subsequently confirmed. We also want to protect consumers bet- fee-based advice. We will create a statutory fee structure for this ter from dubious door-to-door selling. that strengthens financial advisers and makes them more independent. Together with the consumer advice centres and the sector, we will develop fee models (instalment payments, flat rates) that match

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people‘s life situation and preferences, and we will reduce costs with Better security for cultural workers and creatives standard pension plan products, especially for people on low and medium incomes. Financial supervision should make more use of the The coronavirus crisis shows the kind of precarious working con- possibility of prohibiting the sale of detrimental misleading financial ditions experienced by many cultural and media workers. A diverse products and ensure more financial education. In addition, we want cultural landscape requires security that offers scope and enables to strengthen the competences of BaFin in the area of consumer pro- artistic and cultural creativity. We are committed to good working tection and extend the participation rights of the Consumer Advisory and training conditions and fair pay to eliminate precarious employ- Council. We will limit excessive overdraft interest rates and charges, ment contracts in private and, especially, public cultural institutions. especially for basic accounts. Solo self-employed people and cultural workers should be protected by a basic income of EUR 1,200 per month for the duration of the coronavirus crisis. However, protection is also required beyond this. We will promote culture, the arts and sport The Artists‘ Social Security Fund (KSK) must be financially strengthened, legal certainty provided for membership of the KSK, inclu- Crisis-proof structures for culture ding for artists who are only intermittently employed in productions with compulsory insurance, and optional continued insurance in the The arts are independent and do not have to fulfil any purpose. At the unemployment insurance system for self-employed people must be same time, they are of central importance for reflecting society back simplified. It must be ensured that creators receive fair remuneration to itself, cohesion and the personal development of the individual. for their works. An appropriate participation, especially in the profits We want the cultural landscape to find new vibrancy, diversity and of distribution platforms, will ensure that cultural and media workers richness after the pandemic with its months-long closures and for can earn money from their works. In the case of digital content, users culture and cultural education to finally become a natural compo- should not be put in a worse position than with non-digital goods nent of public service provision. Consequently, we want to enshrine when loaning and reselling these. For this reason, libraries should culture as a national objective in the Basic Law. A long-term (recovery) be able to lend e-books under the same conditions that have proved strategy must strengthen local government finances as an important successful for physical books, without having to conclude licensing basis for cultural life, reform the law on public funding, enable more agreements for this. cooperation between the federal government, the states and local authorities in the funding of cultural institutions and projects and Culture in society establish a fund for the protection of cultural institutions from eviction and demolition which safeguards cultural venues such as clubs in Active cultural life is the basis of democratic societies. This is where the long term. In future, public cultural funding should be coordinated discussion on how we want to live takes place. Therefore, society Chapter 5 Chapter in a participatory, inclusive and gender-equitable way, and should be must be visible in all its diversity in cultural works. We want to open 5 Chapter awarded based on transparent criteria. Likewise, this requires equal and strengthen cultural facilities so that everyone has easy access to value to be assigned to the funding and framework conditions for all them and can use and shape what they offer. Existing social, financial cultural forms and branches, for the independent scene as well as or building obstacles have to be dismantled for this to happen, for institutionally unded cultural institutions. example through free entry for schoolchildren to public museums, through opening public libraries on Sundays or through a cultural pass for people on low income. We want to especially promote, continually and nationwide, the types of cultural offers that consider the

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needs of their town or community and that see this as their central simplify decision-making processes: we will disentangle the structure task for the future. In rural regions, but also in urban centres, cultural from television stations and a multitude of committees in favour of institutions should become hubs for encounters and so-called “third criteria-based automatic funding, and direct our attention more to places” that also offer access to culture to people who have not pre- funding subject matter and scripts as well as the next generation. viously benefited from it. In filling directorship posts, in the composi- Mandatory quotas will ensure that women have equal opportunities tion of state-funded cultural organisations, in the awarding of grants in film. Minimum social standards and fair exploitation routes will and commissions and in state juries, we want to introduce a quota improve the economic position of film professionals. Environmentally regulation to guarantee gender-equity and promote flat hierarchies friendly production will be rewarded with financial incentives. We will and participatory structures. In addition, appropriate representation of support cinemas and festivals with reliable funding instruments. the diversity in society must be ensured. Topics such as sustainability, diversity and inclusive participation must be a firm component of trai- Strengthening and opening up remembrance culture ning for cultural careers. We also want to promote cultural diversity as well as transculturality, in other words the mutual intermingling Remembrance culture contributes decisively towards self-understan- of cultures. ding and cohesion and is a fundamental prerequisite for protecting our democracy. However, there are still gaps in terms of dealing with Making the cultural sector more environmentally friendly Germany‘s criminal history. We have to resolutely continue to process National Socialism. We want to honour little considered victim groups The cultural sector and the arts can play an important role in mana- such as so-called “asocial people”, “career criminals” and “euthanasia” ging the climate crisis. There are many highly committed initiati- victims and recognise them through appropriate compensation. Their ves and players who are attempting to work in a way that is more life stories and the crime sites of their murders should be researched resource efficient and to orient the cultural sector towards an eco- and identified. Financial support for research work, further develop- logical approach. We will support this commitment by means of a ment of teaching and academic work at the memorial sites as well central advice centre, the Green Culture Desk and establish a Green further processing and restitution of Nazi looted art are central issues Culture Fund as a funding instrument. Artists also provide important here. This also includes fulfilling our other obligations towards count- stimuli for long-term transformation. We want to create an instrument ries that suffered under German occupation. The SED dictatorship for interagency transdisciplinary funding in the form of a fund for should also be further analysed by continuing the research and poli- aesthetics and sustainability, which will enable the development of tical educational work at the regional offices of the Federal Com- long-term structures and create free spaces for experimentation and missioner for the Stasi Records. We will support remembrance sites action. By this, we also mean hybrid models of cooperation between relating to the peaceful revolution of 1989, German Reunification and artists, academics and players in civil society. the profound transformation processes that followed in East Germany Chapter 5 Chapter through federal sponsorship. We also want to support regional initia- 5 Chapter Strengthening film and cinema culture and leading them into tives for processing the past more in their work and are committed to the digital age unbureaucratic, higher compensation for the victims and persecuted people of the SED dictatorship. We also want to create legal regula- We want to reinforce films as a defining medium of the moving image tions for the restitution of the stolen art from the Nazi and GDR eras. and reinforce cinemas as public cultural sites in view of the rapid We will raise awareness of the continuing legacy of colonialism by change in forms of production and distribution. To increase the artis- establishing a central remembrance and learning site, thereby sup- tic quality and attractiveness of German and European film, we will porting a social debate around our colonial heritage that enables an

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antiracist perspective on history and society. Critical analysis of colo- of public swimming pools. Major sport events should be enabled to nial crime and decolonisation of public spaces is central to this and be climate-neutral, social, sustainable and in conformity with human requires comprehensive research of provenance, digitalisation as well rights and their costs should be transparently presented so that they as transparent disclosure and mandatory regulations for the restitu- also create a lasting infrastructure benefit for local citizens. This tion of cultural heritage from colonial contexts. This can only succeed requires a nationally coherent, federally coordinated overall strategy through close cooperation with the descendants and civil society in which citizens play a part in the planning right from the start. The initiatives of formerly colonised and damaged people worldwide. At principle is that prevention is the best medicine. Therefore we want the same time, the German remembrance culture must open up to to support public exercise spaces accessible to all that also enable the diverse experiences and stories of people who have migrated to people on a low income to engage in sport. Esports are no longer a Germany or whose history is interwoven with German history, and niche topic and are inspiring more and more people. We want to ena- the memorial concept must be further developed accordingly. We will ble new paths in sports clubs and youth clubs – by granting esports also ensure an active remembrance culture in all public institutions. non-profit status, we will strengthen voluntary civic engagement. We want to inspire and promote the recruitment of the next generation A development plan for sport in IT and the creative industries. We will support the development of esports and gaming, especially in relation to diversity, sustainability, In sport, the largest promoter of organised civil society and voluntary youth protection and media literacy, and shape these together with civic engagement, democratic values such as community, tolerance, gamers, associations and academia. Together with all protagonists we integration, inclusion, civic engagement and preventative healthcare will stand against discrimination and hate speech. are lived and communicated every day. Sport thereby takes on a pro- minent role for living together in society. We will support this and Elite sport needs popular sport create better framework conditions for it. We are committed to ensuring that the participation of women in sports and the diversity of Strong popular sports need role models. In competitive sports, the aim sportspeople and athletes is also reflected in the composition of deci- should be the best possible promotion of talents rather than just con- sion-making bodies. We want to combine ideas and energies and draw centrating on a specific number of medals. That is why, in promoting up and implement a sports development plan – similar to the Golden elite sports, we want to put the central focus on conditions and pro- Plan from the 1960s – together with sports associations, states, local spects for competitive sportspeople, especially for the next generation. authorities, academia, and with the participation of citizens. Here, The previous state employment opportunities for competitive sports- there has to be a special focus in particular on economically under- people will be augmented by civil alternatives. We want to enhance developed regions, especially in East Germany, as the discrepancy bet- the important social and educational work of trainers in both a volun- ween East and West is still a problem in popular sports, even 30 years tary and a professional capacity. With regard to doping prevention and Chapter 5 Chapter after the peaceful revolution. Sufficient accessible sports facilities the fight against doping, we will strengthen NADA and, at the interna- 5 Chapter and exercise spaces are a public service in cities and rural areas. We tional level, call for far-reaching reforms of WADA, which must perform therefore want to firmly embed spaces for exercise and sport in hou- its tasks fully independently and enable real participation by athletes. sing policy and district planning and enable renovation of the exis- Past doping has to be fully investigated; we will support doping vic- ting facilities by the local authorities in accordance with the energy tims appropriately. Corruption scandals involving sports officials at the regulations. This also includes in particular swimming facilities as our highest level as well as increasing commercialisation are also threa- aim is for every child to be able to learn to swim. We want to achieve tening elite sports. Particularly in the case of football, as a spectator this with a federal programme for the renovation and maintenance sport, it is important to increase the participation opportunities for

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fans and embed the sport more firmly into society again. It is there- social cohesion in the EU. In the coming months, the Conference on fore necessary to boost transparency and good governance in sport. the Future of Europe offers a major opportunity to strengthen the Adherence to human rights must be enforced by sports associations on European public and develop EU reforms collectively with citizens. the basis of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights We want to use it for the next phase of European integration on the and be made a condition for awarding major sporting events. We are way to a Federal European Republic and to formulate European ans- committed to a national strategy against mental, physical and sexual wers to the major challenges we face. The results of the Conference abuse in sport, whereby the establishment of an independent centre should be implemented in the context of European legislation up to for safe sport is an integral component. We will work to combat right- and including treaty changes. wing extremism and other forms of group-related hostility in sports with a long-term financially strong federal programme which will be Strengthening the European Parliament advised by an independent body. We will ensure reliable framework conditions for the socio-educational football fan projects and their The history of the EU is a story of the increasing legitimacy of the coordination centres. We will protect the civil rights of fans and will European institutions. Our goal is to strengthen the parliamentary protect them from escalating data collection and collective punish- democracy of the European Union: with a parliament that makes deci- ment. Still existing sexist structures must be broken up, and sports sions on an equal footing with the Council and is given a full right of facilities must be planned in a way that is sensitive to gender. initiative for legislation and strong budgetary authority. It should be able to elect the Commission at the recommendation of the Commis- sion President and also be able to dismiss it by a constructive vote of We will continue to build Europe no confidence. For European Parliament elections, we are committed to citizens also being able to determine the next President of the EU Democratically shaping the future of the EU Commission with their vote for a top candidate from the parties. A portion of members should no longer gain seats in the European Par- We see Germany as having a key and historic responsibility for the liament via many national lists, but rather via EU-wide transnational cohesion and further development of the EU. Recently, however, the lists. We will advocate for the Union citizenship to be further develo- strategy adopted in Berlin was at best to administer and often to ped into a European citizenship so that Union citizens enjoy the same act as a brake. We want to shape European policy actively and in rights and duties in the member states in which they live. We want all a coordinated manner – with a clear compass of values, along the EU citizens whose main place of residence is in Germany to be allowed lines of strong German-French cooperation in collaboration with our to vote, not only in local and European elections, but going forward European partners. Our goal is a democratically strengthened EU that also in state and federal elections. pulls together, moves forward and throws all its weight into fight- Chapter 5 Chapter ing the climate crisis and species extinction. We stand for a unified Eliminating blockages with majority voting 5 Chapter Europe without barriers, as freedom of movement is one of greatest achievements of the European project. In certain areas, we are only The European Union needs more capacity to act to keep pace with progressing at different paces. Stronger cooperation in the context today‘s challenges. We can no longer afford for individual states to of the treaties offers good opportunities here and must always occur block action in areas such as foreign and security policy, tax issues as with the aspiration of everyone finally being able to endorse it, and well as in the energy and social spheres. As long as national interests with full parliamentary rights. We regard the further development of can thwart the common good in Europe, the EU will not be able to European institutions as closely connected to the development of take on a more active role, for instance for fairer taxation, or more

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responsibility for democracy and human rights in the world. Hence, we We want to go a few steps further – with a mandatory lobby regis- will advocate for the introduction of majority voting in the collective ter for all EU institutions, stricter waiting periods when moving been decision-making of the European Parliament for all remaining policy politics and business and a “legislative footprint” which will make areas in which decisions are currently still made on the principle of influence on legislation more verifiable, monitored by an independent unanimity. This is also important to ensure the capacity of the EU ethics body with the power to issue penalties. to act in the event of further EU enlargement. Our goal is to further develop the European institutions into a bicameral system. Making European basic rights enforceable

A European law on associations and non-profit organisationst The EU is a community of values and law. We want to make the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights enforceable against the national states The European polity includes the formation of civil societies. This is in the long term, to strengthen all EU citizens in terms of their rights. why we will advocate for an EU-wide law on associations and non- With the EU Mechanism on Democracy, the Rule of Law and Funda- profit organisations. A European association status with clear rules on mental Rights, we are committed to a stronger instrument to pena- foundation, non-profit status and dissolution would put associations lise infringements by authoritarian member states. Specific measures under the protection of the EU and avoid national arbitrariness. In should follow from the annual Rule of Law Report up to and including addition, we want to strengthen the European Citizens‘ Initiative as a infringement proceedings and non-payment of subsidies. The newly key instrument for the participation of citizens and civil society. This created rule of law mechanism must come into operation immedia- should enable citizens to request the convocation of European future tely. Local authorities and regions as well as non-governmental orga- conferences or citizens‘ councils by which a reform of the treaties nisations should then be able to be directly supported by the EU. The could also be proposed. If a citizens‘ initiative is successful, at the Article 7 procedure on the rule of law requires substantial progress. latest after one year and following examination of its compatibility All member states should join the European Public Prosecutor‘s Office with the EU fundamental rights, a legislative proposal should follow if they want to receive new EU funds and submit a public account on and a plenary vote should take place in the European Parliament on subsidy recipients. One in seven Europeans is part of a national or lan- the goal of the initiative. guage minority. We support the Minority SafePack Initiative and want to strengthen minority rights, such as the preservation of language, Making influencing of EU legislation more transparent culture and identity, as well as naming practices, in the EU.

More transparency strengthens European democracy and the trust of A public service media platform in Europe its citizens in politics. To make what the governments of the member states are advocating for in Brussels more comprehensible, we are A Europe growing together needs its own public digital spaces in Chapter 5 Chapter committed to deadlines in the context of legislation by which time a which its citizens can come together to get information, participate, 5 Chapter public debate in the Council must have taken place. Here, all govern- talk to each other and engage in political debate. Up to now, the only ments will have to submit their current position on the proposal to option has been to use commercially operated digital platforms. We the President of the Council. We will lead the way on this in a German are committed to a European digital platform with public funding as federal government, thus providing a good example. We also want an answer to this, in keeping with the times. It will combine qualitati- to substantially further develop access to EU documents. The EU is vely high-value content across Europe – advertisement-free, open and already working in a more transparent way than the Federal Lower multilingual. Furthermore, based on technical openness, interopera- House of Parliament in relation to representatives of interest groups. bility and the best data protection standards, it can also serve as a

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communication platform, including in particular for civil society and educational institutions, to provide content and bring the EU closer Chapter 6: to its citizens through information campaigns. It will be based on a public service mandate. It will work together with the national public broadcasting corporations to make their content accessible across Working together internationally Europe and act free of any political influence.

A Europe of local authorities and regions The biggest challenges of our time are global: pandemics, the climate and biodiversity crisis, famine, urbanisation, migration and the spe- A democratic, diverse EU with a close connection to its citizens lives cial challenge of the socio-ecological transformation. These challen- from the strength of its local authorities and regions. True to the prin- ges can only be overcome if we work together. For years, however, in ciple of subsidiarity, the EU should provide support where local aut- Europe and in the world, Germany has at best moderated, often hesi- horities are stretched to their limits – but not regulate every area tated and finally gone to ground. It is now time once more to pursue of life. The competition rules of the internal market must not force a cooperative and active policy and to forge ahead as a shaping force local authorities to privatise public goods. There have to be excep- with a multilateral, proactive, coherent and values-led policy – always tions in EU trade agreements for the provision of public services by European and alongside a reliable German-French cooperation, with local authorities as well as for state public and social services. To our partners inside and outside Europe, transatlantic and as part of increase cooperation across Europe, we want to strengthen city part- the United Nations. nerships, extend Interreg programmes for cross-border cooperation Based on the United Nations Agenda for Sustainable Development, and promote euroregions and eurodistricts by reducing bureaucracy the Paris Climate Agreement, international human rights standards and increasing flexibility. We want to strengthen European coope- and an international order based on the rule of law, we are committed ration in higher education and further develop this via the concept to an outcome-based global structural policy which comprehends the of European Universities. Local authorities and regions need to have protection and provision of global common goods, a fair distribution more of a say at the European level, including via a strengthened of resources and wealth, and development opportunities for all as the Committee of the Regions. We are committed to the partnership prin- best precaution against the climate and biodiversity crisis, conflicts, ciple for the implementation of the Green Deal and in the design and violence and the immeasurable suffering caused by famine, forced awarding of funding programmes and we will support local small migration and displacement. To this end, we also want to promote a and medium-sized businesses in making their contribution here. We European policy of global networking and connectivity and welcome want to reduce bureaucracy by increasing digitalisation. EU budge- corresponding partnerships. tary resources should also increasingly be provided directly to local The starting point for our policy is a strengthened, crisis-proof Chapter 5 Chapter authority and local civic society players in future. and effective European Union. We want to defend the fundamental values of the EU within our borders and resolutely champion these values outside our borders: human rights, democracy, freedom and the rule of law. The EU as a force for peace is not just the response to a long and painful history of war and enmity on our continent, 6 Chapter exported around the world, but above all a promise for the future that must be honoured. It is our unique home, and one worth protecting. It is precisely because we are staunch Europeans that we fight for its

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constant ongoing evolution. We will work for a European community strength of the law are also the basis for international relationships. of values, which reduces its dependence on third countries in criti- We want to strengthen and confidently help to shape these alliances. cal areas and expands its sovereignty and strategic capacity to act We want to improve the position of Germany‘s representation in inter- – balancing cooperation, where possible, and independence, where national organisations and strengthen its engagement. We are only necessary. Such an EU is in a position to provide and protect critical sovereign when we work together. infrastructure and global common goods, and to stand up for interna- We are committed to an honest balance of interests, a feminist tional law and universal human rights at a global level. An important foreign policy, respect for the rights of marginalised groups, coope- foundation for this is to oppose splits and antidemocratic endeavours ration and the rule of law, freedom from violence and coordinated within Europe. With the largest internal market in the world, the EU crisis prevention and rule-based, primarily civil conflict management has considerable economic influence. We want to use this leverage to in a closely networked world. Our goal is a world order in which con- shape the global transformation fairly and to set ambitious standards flicts are not solved by the rule that might is right, but rather round We are conscious of the considerable obstacles and dilemmas this the negotiating table. And we will reach out our hand to everyone entails. With their authoritarian hegemonic ambitions, not only do who wishes to take part. We will orient our policy in a way that is states such as China and Russia, which systematically nullify human post-colonial and anti-racist, knowing Germany‘s responsibility in the and citizens‘ rights, force other states into economic and political world and in full awareness of the crimes of National Socialism. dependence; they also want to divide Europe. At the same time, a As a highly developed, export-oriented industrialised country, Ger- global socio-ecological transformation is not possible without China, many is one of the main perpetrators of global warming and acts as or without Russia and Brazil. This in itself shows that the global sys- a key player in a globalisation that does not just mean prosperity and temic competition with authoritarian states and dictatorships is real, development, but which also leads to the exploitation of people and putting us between a rock and a hard place - and leaves us facing the environment. This responsibility, especially towards countries in such huge tasks that any form of solo effort would be sure to fail. We the Global South, is something we see as a driver for ambitious change intend to counter this trend with a democracy offensive and thereby and decisive action with the goal of global fairness, and we will start strengthen the global cooperation between democracies and demo- with ourselves. crats everywhere. In any partnership for democracy, it is important to This also means that we not only demand that others observe and involve the federal states, civil society groups and parliamentarians protect human rights, but also measure ourselves against the same who profess to having ambitious democratic standards. In addition, standards. Human rights are an obligation under international law and we want to better coordinate and expand the strengthening of the the unshakeable foundation of a values-led international policy. “All democratic rule of law, regional integration, civil society and human human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights”: Article rights across all ministries and departments. We prefer rule-based, 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is the guiding prin- multilateral cooperation over informal formats ciple of our engagement – and that includes the European refugee We cannot dispel the many contradictions and limitations of policy. This is Europe‘s biggest failure. In no other field do European foreign, development and security policy action. Defending human governments fail to such an extent to live up to their own standards rights, democracy and the clear commitment to freedom movements of morality, human rights and international law.. takes us to the limits of our political capacity to act. At the same time, Yet we have the possibilities and regulations to deal with forced Chapter 6 Chapter we cannot shy away from this responsibility. This makes it even more migration appropriately and according to clear principles of human 6 Chapter essential to have European cohesion and political alliances with all rights. These regulations exist, and there have been many moments in other states, and also regions, local authorities and civil society or our history when they have been acted upon. Following on from this, intergovernmental players for whom the value of cooperation and the we want – if not with all of Europe, then in a humanitarian coalition

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of willing partners inside and outside the EU – to drive forward a cooperation, international climate financing and certain aspects of huma- paradigm shift towards the resolute prevention of the causes of for- nitarian aid to fund a global transformation in line with the United Nati- ced migration and the humane treatment of refugees. Our focus is on ons Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement. At rationality and a willingness to act, on humanity and responsibility – the same time, we will adhere to our international commitments towards and on the indispensable pragmatism of emergency aid development cooperation, climate financing and biodiversity. Germany‘s The size and complexity of the international challenges that lie contribution here is to achieve the ODA quota - i.e. the percentage of before us should be the yardstick for our national and international gross national income spent on official development assistance - of 0.7 political actions. The global tasks are considerable. Let us venture the percent by 2025 and provide a further EUR 10 billion for international necessary responses. climate financing.

Climate foreign policy and global climate justice We will drive forward the socio-ecological We will pursue an ambitious and sustainable climate foreign policy that transformation conforms with human rights and campaign for global climate justice: we will make climate neutrality and tackling climate impacts an inter-minis- Boosting global transformation terial strategic priority of our international political action. In this way we also want to do justice to the historic responsibility of Germany and More than ever, climate changes and the loss of species diversity are Europe. International cooperation for climate justice is an essential aspect posing a real threat to human safety and freedom and to sustainable of climate policy, pursues the achievement of the sustainable development development – everywhere in the world. Time is running out. That is why goals, prevents conflicts over resources and secures peace. The countries we need to give the socio-ecological transformation an energetic boost of the Global South have growing energy needs. We want to use climate in the next few years. The Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 and development partnerships to drive forward innovations for climate Agenda and the Paris Climate Agreement were a breakthrough. All count- neutrality, support the massive expansion of renewable energy and streng- ries have since been obliged to start putting their own houses in order then adaptation so that the world community can get on the 1.5-degree and making their contribution to the shared task. Ultimately, pathway. We want to create win-win situations for Europe and its neig- it is our decisions in business and trade, agricultural or arms exports hbouring states as well as for countries with great potential for renewable that have major global effects on climate, species protection and global energy and thus, while remaining sensitive to post-colonial issues, secure justice. We want to align all areas of policy in Germany with the transfor- our requirement for green energy: green hydrogen instead of imported oil mation and set up a National Council for Peace, Sustainability and Human and gas. We will increase the human and financial resources devoted by Rights to ensure strategic and coherent action in all ministries, depart- Germany and the EU to climate foreign policy and global climate justice ments and areas of policy, and to introduce a sustainability and human and direct our diplomatic efforts specifically towards a policy of climate rights version of the TÜV (Technical Inspection Association), which would justice. We want to provide better support for the existing international check the relevant draft laws for compliance with the UN sustainable funds for climate adaptation and climate protection and we will advocate development and climate goals as well as human rights agreements. On for the establishment of an additional fund to compensate for damage Chapter 6 Chapter an international level, we want to bring new momentum to the socio- and losses as a way of funding initiatives such as climate risk insurance. 6 Chapter ecological transformation by working towards a binding transformation We will end the subsidies for fossil fuels in our development and export quota and, in particular, supporting the countries of the Global South funding. Development and investment banks such as the World Bank and through this process. We will combine the expenditure for development the KfW should be converted into transformation banks.

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Protecting the climate and the environment, security, including through social cash transfers, and that children respecting human rights and young people have access to high-quality school and vocational education. Together with our partner countries, we want to promote Protecting human rights requires us to protect the climate and the the expansion of sustainable and rights-based social security systems. environment; conversely, climate and environmental protection mea- Social security programmes should on principle be easy to access sures also protect human rights. We will stand up for binding mecha- and reach the most vulnerable groups, establish gender equality and nisms to protect people who lose their livelihoods and have to leave reinforce social cohesion. In order to increase the effectiveness of all their homes as a result of extreme weather events or gradual envi- the measures, we want to strengthen impact evaluation, transparency ronmental change. In particular, we will support regional approaches and the exchange of knowledge with academia. that enable those affected to migrate of their own accord and in a dignified manner and that create prospects for residence. At the same Strengthening humanitarian aid time, we want to oblige those states that have historically made the greatest contributions to global warming to take responsibility for We will use humanitarian aid to support people around the world who international environmental law and to support home and host count- are caught up in humanitarian emergencies. The number of humani- ries affected by climate-related migration. We want to strengthen the tarian crises is increasing, both as a result of armed conflict and due structure of the Task Force on Displacement set up by the United to extreme weather events linked to the climate crisis. More and more Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, UNFCCC, and will people are having to leave their homes, and humanitarian crises are work to ensure that their recommendations are implemented, along lasting longer. We want to address this by continuously adjusting the with the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration and funding for humanitarian aid. This will be allocated based on need the Global Compact on Refugees. It is also necessary to strengthen and increasingly on a multi-annual basis. This will enable us to pro- the rights of indigenous communities. We will support initiatives to vide a degree of predictability and flexibility for the implementing strengthen the legal process, including against multilateral invest- organisations and to provide people in need with rapid and appro- ment banks, and the instrument of climate litigation. We will take priate assistance. We are committed to respecting humanitarian prin- up the French initiative to codify and consolidate international envi- ciples and will tackle the structural causes by means of better links ronmental law and, as a first step, push for the right to a clean envi- with civilian crisis prevention and development cooperation. ronment to be certified in a UN General Assembly resolution. Since crimes against the environment do not stop at international borders, it is in the global interest to ensure that the international community We will strengthen multilateral cooperation creates a jurisdiction that pursues such crimes independently and across international borders. Reforming the United Nations

Fighting poverty and inequality worldwide Without the United Nations, the multilateral cooperation towards a socio-ecological transformation cannot be achieved. Its institutions The coronavirus pandemic has led to a dramatic rise in poverty and care for millions of refugees all over the world, providing educational Chapter 6 Chapter inequality worldwide. Combating poverty and equal participation in opportunities, food and healthcare. They mediate in countless wars 6 Chapter society are core aims of our international engagement. We support and conflicts and are the framework in which the two most import- countries in pursuing a socially-oriented economic and taxation policy. ant multilateral agreements of recent years have been negotiated: We will strive to ensure that people around the world have social the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Climate

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Agreement. We will substantially strengthen the financial, personnel and flexible global supply chains is a prerequisite for this, as is the and diplomatic commitment of Germany and the EU to the United lifting of worldwide export restrictions on Covid-19 vaccines. Where Nations, coordinate it better and implement international agreements voluntary production partnerships prove insufficient, we will support consistently in national and European policies. In this way, we will requests for licences for Covid vaccines in exchange for compensation create the right conditions for the necessary reforms of the UN sys- and thus advocate in the negotiations at the WTO for a temporary sus- tem. The Security Council and other organs of the United Nations pension of patents for technologies to combat Covid-19. Monopolies need to be adapted to the realities of the 21st century. This requires on intellectual property relating to the fight against diseases should a fairer representation of the regions on the Security Council. The not be allowed to block access to vital protective materials, vaccines concept of the power of veto is no longer fit for purpose. We will work and drugs. We will support the involvement of Taiwan in the WHO, towards removing the power of veto in the long term. As an interim including observer status. step, in the event of the most severe crimes against humanity, a veto in the Security Council should be backed up with a justification and 50 percent women in international negotiations an alternative proposal. If the Security Council is persistently blocked in the event of the most severe human rights violations, the General We want to provide new impetus for multilateralism through greater Assembly should follow the example of the “Uniting for Peace” reso- cooperation. Transformation can only happen through cooperation, lution on measures to enforce peace and adopt diplomatic measures, and that can only happen by involving the societal groups affec- sanctions or military measures in accordance with Chapter VII of the ted. The equal and intersectional participation of women is still the UN Charter, with a qualified majority. strongest indicator of this. We want to gradually enforce a 50 percent quota for Germany and Europe in all diplomatic and multilateral Increasing resilience against epidemics – strengthening the WHO negotiations, both for postings to international organisations and at the implementation level. This will require a 50 percent quota In order to protect against new diseases and combat existing ones, we for women in selection procedures, for staff in international deploy- will call for increased international cooperation and solidarity under ments, in ministries working internationally and at the intermediate the umbrella of a reformed World Health Organisation as a speciali- and senior levels of the European External Action Service. Compara- sed agency of the United Nations. The WHO should be the coordina- ble criteria, standards, indicators and time frames are required for the ting organisation for global health. We therefore want to empower equality plans of ministries, similar to the Gender Equality Plan set it through much higher contributions and a clear mandate. It should up by the Swedish government. be able to strengthen healthcare systems around the world in order to guarantee better healthcare provision for local populations and improve the prevention of communicable and non-communicable We will foster good relationships diseases, their diagnosis and the response to them. We want to further strengthen its key role in preparing for and fighting pandemics. in a multipolar world We will work to give it a formal seat in the G20. With a view to fighting the coronavirus pandemic, the priorities are to increase the existing For an active European policy with our neighbour states Chapter 6 Chapter production capacity for Covid-19 vaccines and to supply vaccines to 6 Chapter low-income countries via the COVAX alliance. In addition, we are com- Above all, the EU must take more responsibility in its immediate mitted to ensuring the active transfer of technology and knowledge neighbourhood. The EU enlargement policy has been a success, and with regard to the manufacture of essential drugs. Ensuring open, fair one we want to perpetuate. That is why we will argue the case for

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concrete progress to be made regarding the European integration The USA of the countries of the Western Balkans. We want to actively support the necessary reforms including on issues of democracy, the The transatlantic partnership remains a central pillar of Germany‘s rule of law, the fight against corruption and the inclusion and pro- foreign policy, but it must be renewed, applied at a European level, and tection of minorities, especially the Roma people. Visa liberalisation oriented multilaterally and towards clear common values and demo- for Kosovars is essential as the next step, as are advances in the cratic goals. At the heart of a renewed transatlantic EU agenda, we dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo, the opening of the first EU want to see a strong joint impetus for a global climate policy, based accession chapters for Albania and North Macedonia, and the crea- on the Paris climate goals. Particularly by establishing a strong climate tion of a civil society with equal rights for all citizens in Bosnia and partnership, the transatlantic partnership can be both an inspiration Herzegovina. Reconciliation processes and the political and juristic and a driver for a socio-ecological transformation that sets the highest processing of war crimes must be reinforced. We will categorically standards around the world. We are also committed to ensuring a good reject ethnic boundary shifts and discrimination. In Eastern Europe, cooperation with the USA in order to strengthen multilateralism, on many brave people in countries such as Armenia, Georgia, Ukraine or issues of trade and health. We want to work together to ensure the Belarus are fighting for democracy, the rule of law and human rights. worldwide protection of human rights, the development of internatio- We will stand by them and will promote democratic and socio-eco- nal legal norms, global arms control and disarmament, a rule-based logical transformation processes in the region within the framework world order and the strengthening of a responsible trade policy. This of the EU‘s Eastern Partnership and bilaterally, such as by creating includes an agreement over the way we deal with authoritarian states. stronger links between funding and the lasting implementation of The security policy focus of the USA will still not be directed first and reforms. We will support democratic civil society and independent foremost at Europe even with the new US government. The EU and its local media. We want to enable a greater exchange between East and member states must take more responsibility for their own foreign and West and to drive forward judicial reforms. We want to keep the way security policies. This applies in particular to the security of the Eas- clear for EU-associated countries of the Eastern Partnership to join tern neighbour states of the EU such as the Baltic States and Poland. the EU. The south needs a new Mediterranean policy which realises We want to lead the transatlantic debate at many levels, including at the shared development potential for the region while also facing federal and local level, as well as in civil society forums – and thereby up to the huge challenges: terrorism, authoritarian regimes, state establish lasting, diverse societal networks. disintegration. Together, we want to work within the framework of ambitious energy partnerships to turn the Mediterranean region into China a positive energy region. Meanwhile, to our great regret, the United Kingdom has become the first country to leave the common home China is Europe‘s competitor, partner and systemic rival. We demand of the EU. It is good that the Trade and Cooperation Agreement has that China puts an end to its blatant violations of human rights, such laid the foundation for a new beginning. However, further efforts are as in Xinjiang and Tibet, and increasingly also in Hong Kong. There required to prevent European standards from being undermined. The is also a need for constructive dialogue with China which looks for Good Friday Agreement and the open border guarantee peace on the cooperation in areas where China is prepared to enter into construc- island of Ireland. This fragile peace must not be put at risk. We want tive cooperation, and includes clear counter-strategies in areas where Chapter 6 Chapter to keep alive the exchange of students, researchers and vocational China systematically tries to weaken international standards. In parti- 6 Chapter training between the EU and the UK after Brexit. cular on climate policy, we will strive for joint political, economic and technological efforts as well as adherence to sustainable production standards and a transparent roadmap for combating the climate crisis

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in China, for example through a withdrawal from coal. Cooperation also become actively involved in developing a global EU connectivity with China must not be pursued at the expense of third countries or strategy in order to bring about shared infrastructure development in human and civil rights. We will adhere to the “One-China policy” of line with high-quality international standards according to the needs the European Union and emphasise that unification with Taiwan must of our partners. not be forced through against the will of the population of Taiwan. At the same time, we want to expand political exchange with Taiwan. We Russland want to use our trade relationships with China to call for fair market access for foreign investment, legal certainty and a level playing field. Russia has been turning into an increasingly authoritarian state We expect China to ratify the crucial core standards of the Internatio- whose foreign policy threatens the democracy, stability and free- nal Labour Organisation (ILO) and end all forms of forced labour. The dom of the EU and the shared neighbourhood increasingly aggressi- EU supply chain law must, in light of human rights violations - such as vely by military and hybrid means. At the same time, the democracy those in Xinjiang – deny access to the internal market for goods pro- movement is gaining ground in Russia. We want to support the brave duced by forced labour, as well as making companies liable for their civil society that is defying the increasingly harsh repression by the products. Germany should also campaign for a fact-finding mission to Kremlin and fighting for human rights, democracy, the rule of law and Xinjiang within the framework of the UN Human Rights Council and sexual self-determination, and to intensify cultural, political and aca- designate the oppression of the Uyghurs as international crimes. We demic exchanges with it. The EU has formulated clear conditions for cannot agree to the EU-China Comprehensive Agreement on Invest- a loosening of sanctions, which were imposed on Russia due to the ment, or CAI, in its current form. We will work towards closer European annexation of Crimea in violation of international law and the mili- and transatlantic coordination with regard to China. tary action in Ukraine. We will retain these and intensify the sanctions if necessary. We demand that the Russian government implements its The Indo-Pacific commitments from the Minsk Agreement. The Nord Stream 2 pipeline project does not contribute to climate protection, runs directly coun- We are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific region based on ter to the energy and geostrategic interests of the European Union global norms and international law. We want comprehensive coope- and endangers the stability of Ukraine and must therefore be stopped. ration with the region, especially in the areas of the rule of law and It is also essential to enter into a constructive climate dialogue with democracy, strengthening multilateralism, and in the fields of digita- Russia, whereby for individual steps it will be necessary to protect lisation and climate protection. We view Australia, Japan, New Zealand, human rights. South Korea and Taiwan as important partner countries and equally, we want to expand our strategic partnerships with India and ASEAN. Turkey Strengthening civil societies is an integral part of our Indo-Pacific strategy. We will develop an Indo-Pacific trade policy that stipulates Turkey and the EU have far more in common than that which divides sustainable bilateral trade relations with like-minded partners in a them: socially, culturally and economically. The relationship between multilateral framework, is achieved in a democratic and transparent Germany and Turkey, in particular, is close and multi-faceted, not least way, and supports global common interests such as climate protec- because of their shared migration history. We stand beside all those Chapter 6 Chapter tion, social standards and human rights. We will endeavour to engage who are fighting for democracy, the rule of law, equality and human 6 Chapter in intensified dialogue on peace and security with partners in the rights in Turkey. We condemn human rights and rule of law violations, Indo-Pacific region. Those people who are worst affected by rising call for the immediate release of all political prisoners and the return sea levels deserve our increased, concrete support. Germany should to a political dialogue and peace process on the Kurdish question.

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We totally reject the aggressive foreign policy of the Turkish govern- dent and sustainable economic structures, especially for young peo- ment and urge it to return to a multilateral foreign and security ple. Mediating an agreement between Iran and the Arab Gulf states is policy. This must also become a matter for discussion within NATO, one of the tasks of European foreign policy, as are efforts to mediate not least with a view to the military offensive of Turkey in Northern in ongoing conflicts, such as those in Syria, Libya and Yemen, as well Syria, which contravenes international law. We condemn the with- as preventing state disintegration, corruption, social upheavals and drawal of Turkey from the Istanbul Convention and urge them to displacements in the entire region. The preservation and revival of reverse this decision. The resumption of talks on accession to the EU the nuclear deal with Iran (JCPOA) can prevent a nuclear arms race is our political goal. However, this can only happen if Turkey makes an in the Middle East. Peace, security and humane living conditions for about-turn back to democracy and the rule of law. Turkey has taken in all people in the Middle East are a central focus of German foreign more refugees – especially from Syria – than all the 27 EU member and security policy, also and especially with a view to lasting peace states put together. Yet the existing EU-Turkey deal undermines the between Israelis and Palestinians. The security of the State of Israel international right to asylum. It has broken down and must be ended. is part of Germany‘s raison d‘état. The existence and security of Israel We urge Turkey to implement the Geneva Convention on refugees in as a national home for the Jewish people with equal rights for all its its entirety. Turkey is not a safe third country. A new German federal citizens are non-negotiable. We are committed to the continuation government must use the negotiations on a new agreement, initiated of close German-Israeli relations. We condemn the ongoing threat to by the Commission, to learn from the mistakes of the past. The new the State of Israel and its sovereignty in its neighbourhood and the agreement must comply with national and international law. Rather terrorism against its population. We criticise both the escalation of than combating forced migration, it should aim to improve people‘s violence and measures that contravene international law such as the prospects. It should therefore guarantee the necessary financial and annexation of occupied territories or the expansion of settlements, logistical support on the ground, support Turkey in taking in refugees as they are contrary to the goal of a peaceful and political solution and introduce binding quota commitments for the resettlement of to the conflict and an ending of the occupation. Achieving peace and vulnerable refugees in the EU. In return, Turkey must guarantee that it security requires a two-state settlement based on the 1967 borders will take good care of refugees and integrate them into society. Refu- with two sovereign, viable and democratic states for Israelis and for gees should not become pawns. Such an agreement must be debated Palestinians. We will advocate for elections, a process of democratisa- and decided in Parliament. People in Germany must not be exploited, tion and the development of structures based on the rule of law in the kept under surveillance or threatened by the Turkish government and Palestinian territories. To this end, Europe should coordinate closely its supporters. Especially in these difficult times, we want to expand with the new US government. exchanges with human rights-oriented and democratic civil society in Turkey and youth exchange programmes. Neighbourhood and partnership with the African states

The Middle East The African states have close regional and historic ties with Europe. We will adopt a differentiated approach to the African continent and Partnerships with the states and societies of the Middle East and its regions in all their diversity. European Africa policy must free itself the southern European neighbourhood are a key part of our foreign, from patriarchal attitudes, assume European responsibility and recon- Chapter 6 Chapter climate and human rights policy. We are committed to multi-faceted cile all relevant interests. Germany should take on a more active role 6 Chapter forms of cooperation, such as through a strengthening of civil socie- in this respect within the EU. The cooperation between the EU and ties in their efforts for greater participation, collaboration in coping Africa should focus on climate protection, digitalisation, technology with the challenge of climate change, and the promotion of indepen- transfer, civil crisis prevention and the socio-ecological transforma-

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tion as well as enabling fair and safe migration routes from Africa to Europe. We want to work more closely with the civil society and the We will defend human rights cultural and academic sectors in Africa and increase the involvement of the diverse African diaspora in Europe. We reject the continuation Protecting human rights defenders of a unilateral policy, which is based to a large extent on hostility to refugees, unfair trade and agricultural policies and the exploitation Human rights defenders are true heroes. All over the world, they are of raw materials, and we will focus on developing a jointly developed at the vanguard of the fight for compliance with human rights, often EU-Africa strategy. We support the African Union and the regional putting themselves and their families at risk in the process. They need organisations in the implementation of their Agenda 2063, the African our protection, our solidarity and active support – at all levels. Human Free Trade Zone and the regional development and peace agendas. rights officials should therefore be established as an additional point of contact at German diplomatic missions that are especially affected, Latin America and cross-departmental, systematic reporting on the human rights situation in the country should be introduced. We want to provide human We are committed to a well-balanced German and EU Latin Ame- rights defenders who cannot stay in their own country because they rica and Caribbean policy which promotes the socio-ecological trans- are in acute danger there with humanitarian visas quicker and more formation and protects human rights. Many states in Latin America frequently than has been the case to date, and we intend to expand have in the past relied an economic model based on the exploitation the newly established Elisabeth-Selbert-Initiative for their temporary of raw materials, which has caused harm to people, nature and the admission. At an international level, we will advocate for the expansion national economies. Furthermore, most Latin American states have of support opportunities for civil society initiatives and the financial been very badly hit by the coronavirus crisis. Latin America is home to strengthening of the relevant protective instruments and institutions, vital civil societies and strong social movements. Social inequalities, such as special rapporteurs. We will implement the latest declarations corruption, encrusted power structures, patriarchal societal models and recommendations at UN level on the protection of human rights and a way of doing business that destroys the natural foundations of defenders. Furthermore, we are also committed to the protection and life are increasingly being questioned and progressive alternatives targeted support of human rights defenders from EU member states. put forward. At the same time, authoritarian styles of government are increasing in many countries and the exploitation of nature conti- Bringing war criminals to justice nues to expand. Indigenous, environmental, LGBTQ*, women‘s rights and human rights activists are under serious threat and require inter- Crimes against humanity, genocide and war crimes must not remain national awareness and support. The ecosystems of Latin America unpunished – as a sign of justice to the victims, as a signal of deter- play a key role in the protection of global common goods such as the rence and as a prerequisite for peace and reconciliation. German cri- climate and biodiversity. Trade policies such as the Mercosur Treaty minal law also offers the possibility of convictions here in Germany. must be oriented towards binding guidelines for the protection of To that end, we will expand the capacities of the Federal Criminal human rights, the climate and the environment. Ecological sustai- Police Office and the Public Prosecutor‘s Office. Investigations in cases nability, democratic participation, peace and gender equality are the of sexual violence must be improved and the Code of Criminal Pro- Chapter 6 Chapter cornerstones of our cooperation with the states and civil societies of cedure should be reformed wherever it does not take into account 6 Chapter Latin America. The removal of many Latin American states as partner the particular features of international criminal proceedings. In addi- countries of German development cooperation is short-sighted and tion, we are committed to ensuring the civil liability of companies something we want to change. for the most serious human rights violations. Internationally, we will

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advocate for long-term financial support for civil society organisati- For the self-determination of women and girls worldwide ons and the networking of relevant players in this area as well as for the political and financial strengthening of the International Criminal Gender equality is a human right. Without gender equality, it is not Court and other institutions such as the United Nations mechanism possible to combat poverty effectively. In many of the poorest count- for the investigation and prosecution of the most serious war crimes ries and those troubled by conflict, women and girls are particularly in Syria (IIIM). We will work towards ensuring that all states accede affected by poverty, hunger and violence. We will stand up consist- to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court. In particular, ently for the rights of women and girls worldwide, for a life of self- children and young people who have experienced sexual and gender- determination, and we will use all diplomatic means to seek the full based abuse, abductions or recruitment as child soldiers are left badly application of the Istanbul Convention. Education and health are key traumatised. If this trauma is not processed, it can affect the lives of factors here. We will work towards securing the unrestricted access of these people and their families as well as the entire social cohesion women and girls to an equal education and protecting their sexual and over generations. We want to significantly expand individual trauma reproductive rights. We will ensure that women and girls worldwide therapy by means of more qualified personnel and safe trauma centres have unrestricted access to contraception. There is a need for inno- locally, including with our international partners, and also in Germany. vative education services such as compact remedial basic education for women or vocational training in crisis and post-conflict contexts. No surveillance technology for dictators and autocrats Our international cooperation will therefore be aimed both financially and conceptually at this task, and we will embed into all projects the Encrypted communication saves lives every day. On social media, achievement of gender equality as an interdisciplinary task, as well as human rights violations that used to go undiscovered are now there reproductive health and the right to education. for all to see. And without satellite images, it would not be possible to trace incidents such as the displacement of entire village commu- Implementing human rights conventions, nities in war zones. At the same time, it is often European surveillance strengthening institutions tools that enable autocratic regimes to pursue undesirable activists. Biometric identification systems, such as facial recognition software, In order to implement human rights in fact and in law, international pose an additional threat particularly to human rights defenders, human rights conventions must be ratified and consistently imple- media professionals and persecuted minorities in authoritarian states. mented, and human rights institutions strengthened. It is particu- We will aim for a ban on the export, sale and transfer of surveillance larly important to complete the implementation of the ILO Conven- instruments to repressive regimes. We want to anchor the correspon- tion on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and to ratify Protocol 12 to ding protective clauses in German and European export regulations. the European Convention on Human Rights relating to anti-discri- We will promote the decriminalisation of encrypted communication, mination, the Optional Protocol to the UN Social Pact and the UN oppose any weakening of encryption technologies and standards and Migrant Workers Convention as well as the UN Declaration on the aim to strengthen the multi-stakeholder governance of the internet at rights of peasants. This has been long overdue for Germany for many international level. Within the framework of our international coope- years. We want to support and actively drive forward the process for ration, we will advocate for free access for all to digital technology. a UN treaty on business and human rights (the so-called Binding Chapter 6 Chapter It is important to promote and protect free access to information as Treaty). Furthermore, we want to create a separate criminal offence 6 Chapter a global public good. By supporting training, we will strengthen the of “enforced disappearance” in Germany to reduce the deficit in the secure digital networking of civil society organisations worldwide. implementation of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. At European level, we

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will advocate for the implementation of the judgements of the European Court of Human Rights. We will endorse the instrument We will protect refugees of targeted EU sanctions against human rights violators. We want to create better structural provision for the Federal Government Com- Implementing a refugee policy in Europe missioner for Human Rights Policy and Humanitarian Assistance and based on human rights at least double the financial support of the National Agency for the Prevention of Torture and the German Institute for Human Rights, so We will advocate for a European Union that adheres to its humani- that they can adequately fulfil their statutory duties. At international tarian and legal obligation to guarantee access to the fundamental level, we will work to strengthen the UN special committees and right of asylum and the need to carry out procedures fairly and swiftly special rapporteurs. Human rights and the promotion of democracy in line with standards of international law. However hard that may are the cornerstones of our developmental work. currently be in the EU 27. Germany has a key role to play here. The new federal government must defend human rights and the right to asy- Protecting the rights of minorities lum. Conditions such as those in the camps on the Greek islands, on the Mediterranean or on the border with Croatia represent a break The treatment of minorities is a yardstick for human rights protec- with European values and human rights. The blockade of a joint and tion in a society. We are committed to strengthening the rights of humane refugee policy between the member states is something we minorities at an international level – including within the EU. Indivi- will counter with the following plan: refugees should be registered dual states continue to implement minority protection into national in registration centres located in EU states with external borders that law as stipulated by the United Nations, but there is no standard are governed by constitutional and European law and jointly run by monitoring to check whether this is sufficiently comprehensive. the European institutions. Here, an initial check would be carried out This means that the protection is patchy. In terms of foreign policy, to see whether there were any corresponding entries in the security we will advocate the worldwide implementation of the Yogyakarta databases. We would then know who is coming to us, and would at the Principles on the protection of LGBTQ* rights. In development policy, same time fulfil our humanitarian responsibilities. The people who we want to introduce a new focus here and significantly increase our come to Europe must receive medical and psychological first aid and commitment. Even within the EU there are major differences: there accommodation that is in accordance with their human rights. Taking are no joint EU minimum standards and no uniform legal frame- into consideration their personal situation, such as family ties or lan- work that provides protection and support for minorities. We want guage skills, the EU Asylum Agency would choose the host member to change that. We will advocate for the adoption of the 5th anti- state to conduct the asylum process as quickly as possible. The rapid discrimination Directive, so that internationally recognised human distribution mechanism on which the system is based will initially rights are given a legal framework in the EU and the UN Convention rely on the willingness of member states, regions and cities to volun- on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is legally implemented at tarily take in refugees. Those that do will receive assistance from an European level. We will drive forward the EU Anti-racism Action Plan EU integration fund. If there are not enough host places, all member at national and international level. states will be obliged, according to their gross domestic product and size of population, to increase their offer or pay at least an equiva- Chapter 6 Chapter lent contribution to the overall costs. The asylum process will then 6 Chapter take place in the host member state. Early asylum checks at external borders are not compatible with this approach. The Commission will ensure that the joint rules and standards are adhered to and applied

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to all people. We will lead the way with countries and regions that Secure access routes via a humanitarian host partnership are willing to take action in order to end the current disastrous situation on our external borders. We reject camps that are unsuitable for As part of the UNHCR resettlement programme, refugees who are human occupation and closed institutions, transit zones and external recognised by the United Nations and are particularly in need of pro- European camps in third countries. tection will be distributed among the host countries in solidarity and in an orderly manner, instead of leaving them to their fate on dange- Creating safe and legal escape routes rous escape routes. This will save lives and remove the commercial basis for people smuggling, and follows a tried and tested, predicta- Nobody should have to risk their own life or those of their family for ble process. In the Global Compact on Refugees, the world commu- the right to seek asylum under international law. And yet that is today‘s nity reached an agreement to strengthen resettlement. However, the bitter reality: there are still insufficient options of safe access routes number of host places has actually been falling for years. We pro- and refugees are therefore forced to take dangerous routes through pose, together with the new US administration and Canada as well as the desert or across the sea. We want to create safe and legal access others in a global humanitarian partnership, to significantly expand routes – so that people find protection and to prevent people smug- acceptance through the resettlement programme and in the medium glers from profiting from the need and suffering of refugees. Here, we term to meet at least the fair share of annual resettlement needs are bound by the special protection of the family in accordance with according to economic strength identified by the UNHCR. In this way, the Basic Law, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the we will strengthen the United Nations, do justice to Europe‘s global European Convention on Human Rights and will advocate lifting the responsibility in the long term, create predictability on all sides, set restrictions on family reunions. Families belong together and child a good example and encourage other states to join the international welfare has top priority. People with a subsidiary protected status must alliance. In parallel, we will ensure that the planned EU resettle- therefore be able to bring their dependants in later without the exis- ment is oriented towards the UNHCR criteria. Resettlement would ting restrictions and be put on a par with refugees in line with the not affect the individual right to asylum. Geneva Convention. We want to once again make it possible to bring in siblings later. German and European embassies need more staff and Enabling federal state admission programmes the possibility of filing applications digitally to shorten the waiting and a sponsorship scheme times for visas for family members. In cases where the procurement of proof of identity by people entitled to protection from official bodies in Several federal states and over 200 local authorities in Germany are their country of origin will put family members still living there at risk, prepared to take in more refugees than have been promised by the we will campaign for the pragmatic issuing of substitute ID papers. federal government. The fact that these additional host places are With a humanitarian visa, we want to give people in need of protection urgently required is clear in light of the miserable conditions in the the possibility of coming safely to Europe and claiming asylum here. camps on the external borders of the EU, such as on the Greek islands We will also advocate for the acceptance of local Afghan employees or on the Bosnia-Croatia border. We want a humanitarian admission and their dependants, who are in danger as a result of their work with policy in which the federal government and the federal states work German institutions such as the Federal Armed Forces or the German together and the willingness of local authorities and federal states Chapter 6 Chapter Society for International Cooperation (GIZ). This would not affect the to take in refugees is no longer ignored. Federal states, districts, cities 6 Chapter individual right to asylum. and communities should be given a greater say in the humanitarian admission of refugees. By changing the rules of consent between the Federal Ministry of the Interior and the federal states from agreement

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to consultation, we want to make it clear that in future, federal states The right to asylum is based on case-by-case assessments, and under will be able to decide freely and independently to accept refugees international and European law, the non-refoulement obligation above and beyond the Königstein formula. Furthermore, the federal applies at all times and in all places. The Geneva Refugee Conven- government should continue to fulfil its financial and infrastructu- tion applies without limitation. Its erosion does not lead to greater ral tasks and promote the willingness to take in refugees. European security or increase the European capacity to act in terms of refugee funds could also be used within the framework of the host states policy. However, we are currently witnessing a systematic breach of and regions. We will launch improved humanitarian federal admis- the law on the EU external borders: people are being mistreated, left sion schemes and allocations from EU states with external borders. unprotected on the water or refused access to the asylum process. A sponsorship scheme similar to that run by Canada could promote a Pushbacks by national border police or Frontex must incur legal and welcoming culture. Groups of mentors or associations could use this political penalties. Germany must not take part in any operations that scheme to pledge to supporting refugees and thus provide tangible contravene international law or human rights; any violations must be help to people through relocation and resettlement opportunities. prosecuted and must have consequences. We will work to ensure that there is no longer any room for a lack of transparency or human rights Securing the rule of law and human rights violations in EU agencies such as Frontex. We will support European at our external borders initiatives that aim to rectify the structural problems around human rights protection at border controls by means of structural changes. A common space for freedom of movement with no internal borders We want to expand state and civil society human rights monitoring, in requires controlled external borders. Yet borders are only controlled particular by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency. There is a need for by the rule of law when human rights at these borders are protected tight parliamentary control of Frontex operations as well as system- and access to the right of asylum is safeguarded. The fact that each atic monitoring of human rights on the ground. year, thousands of people drown in the Mediterranean because Euro- pean governments do not offer them sufficient safe access routes and Supporting host and transit countries refuse to carry out rescues at sea is a disgrace. We will continue to fight for comprehensive civil sea rescue operations coordinated and The humanitarian care of refugees outside the European Union is part financed by Europe. Since a joint approach by all European member of our global responsibility. We want to expand the financial and logis- states does not appear possible at present, we want to begin with tical support of reception and transit countries such as Turkey, Lebanon, those states that consider sea rescues as an obligation under inter- Sudan, Pakistan and Uganda as well as the aid organisations working national law and make their own contribution: those saved at sea there. German and European cooperation with third countries must must be taken to the nearest safe harbour where they are immedia- always be carried out in a way that complies fully with human and fun- tely allocated, via a distribution mechanism, to member states, regions damental rights as well as international asylum standards. It must also or cities that are willing to accept them. We offer our staunch support not be targeted at preventing escape, as is currently the case with the for civil society rescue initiatives and call for an end to the crimina- so-called Libyan Coast Guard and the Erdogan government. We there- lisation and official obstruction of their work. In this way, we want to fore reject the existing “migration partnerships”, which make preventing make the registration of ships belonging to human rights monito- refugees from entering another country and repatriation a condition, Chapter 6 Chapter ring groups and sea rescue organisations simpler and legally secure. for example, of development cooperation, and also any cooperation 6 Chapter We are in favour of a European border control that is based on the with the Libyan Coast Guard. For repatriations, instead of defining “safe common protection of human rights and carries out its role without countries of origin”, we need readmission agreements that comply with abusing them by preventing refugees from entering another country. human rights. For those countries that can effectively guarantee safety

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for repatriated citizens, we want instead to open up reliable prospects Germany and Europe could lead the way and place any unused special for an orderly migration by means of visa facilitation or training part- drawing rights at the disposal of the countries in the Global South, as nerships. However, readmission agreements must not be made into Canada has already done. The IMF should also help countries in the conditions in other political areas, such as development policy support Global South with the introduction and implementation of capital con- or support for the rule of law, must not apply to third-country nationals trols, working in cooperation with states with global financial centres. or counteract immigration law. Voting power must be shifted in favour of countries in the Global South. The EU states should combine their voting rights. Tackling the structural causes of forced migration Enabling development, resolving debt crises One thing is clear: we cannot influence all the causes of displacement. Many people are forced to migrate because they are being persecuted Many countries in the Global South find themselves in a debt crisis. or deprived of their basic rights. It is therefore all the more crucial to The current moratorium on debt service is correct, but simply kicks the take consistent action wherever our economic activity and consump- problem down the road. We need solid debt restructuring and debt tion lead to exploitation or a lack of prospects elsewhere. In this way, cancellations to give these countries the space for sustainable develop- we want to prevent people from being forced to migrate in the first ment. To provide for future crises of over-indebtedness, we will work place and having to leave their homes involuntarily. We will therefore towards a transparent and independent debt restructuring process for put the structural causes of forced migration and displacement and countries, based at the United Nations. Private creditors must be legally our responsibility in this respect at the heart of our policies. After all, obliged to take part in such a process, so that debt relief can no longer many of the political decisions that we make in Germany and Europe be blocked and mechanisms such as distressed securities funds can no have a direct impact on living conditions in other parts of the world. longer profit at the expense of others. Until an international solution We will therefore take a strong stand in favour of civil crisis preven- is feasible, Germany and other governments must make the first move tion and want to use more restrictive export controls to put an end with coordinated legislation. The aim of this is to make it possible for to European arms exports to dictators, regimes that disregard human heavily indebted countries in the Global South to have the breathing rights and war zones. We will work towards a fair trade system that space to develop the necessary socio-ecological transformation proces- also serves the interests of the people in the Global South. And we ses, such as improving their healthcare, education and social systems. will drive forward the socio-ecological transformation of our economy. Banning speculation on foodstuffs

We will fight for a fair world economic order Food prices are often subject to major fluctuations. This is not only a result of weather and harvests, but also unscrupulous speculators, Global crisis prevention who put the maximisation of profit ahead of food security. Other vital resources, such as water, are increasingly becoming speculative com- In many countries of the Global South, the coronavirus crisis is lea- modities. We will call for stricter regulations in the EU to prevent exces- ding to capital flight and currency crises, revealing the weaknesses sive food speculation. This will require strict reporting obligations for Chapter 6 Chapter of the monetary regime. Our long-term goal is the establishment of a traders and strict price and position limits on all European commodity 6 Chapter cooperative global monetary system. The IMF must be able to provide exchanges. In this way, we will counter uncontrolled speculation that much more unconditional liquidity in crisis situations. To that end, we distorts the market, without endangering the hedging mechanisms on will advocate for a significant increase in the special drawing rights. the futures markets that are so important for the agricultural sector.

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Making international policy feminist We will stand up for peace and security We will make our foreign, development, trade and security policy femi- Looking ahead to a peaceful future nist. Women, girls and marginalised groups such as LGBTQ* people are far more likely to be adversely affected by wars, conflicts and poverty. Our foreign and security policy is aimed at preventing conflicts and Safeguarding their rights and their role as shapers of international is therefore based on looking forward in line with the UN Agenda for policy promotes peace, development, stability and security. It is about Sustainable Development. Germany should be a driving force in the strengthening and protecting the diverse perspectives of women, political de-escalation of conflicts and civil conflict resolution at a girls and marginalised groups and always involving them at least on global level. We will add human security to the traditional concept an equal basis in all bilateral or multilateral negotiations. This also of security and thus put the spotlight back on the needs of people. requires regular gender analyses for individual country contexts and The European External Action Service and the Common Foreign and close cooperation with feminist players in Germany and in our part- Security Policy must be strengthened, including the role of the High ner countries. We want to provide the necessary long-term financial Representative. To the principles of “preventing crises, resolving con- and political support and strengthen needs-based strategies, gender flicts, building peace” we want to add a development plan with civi- budgeting and improved ministerial and departmental coordination. lian aims and make the External Action Service fit for its current It is important to drive forward implementation of Agenda 1325 on responsibilities. The human and financial resources for civilian crisis “Women, Peace and Security” within Germany and at an international prevention should be increased in a targeted manner and made more level, to make a determined effort to curb sexual and gender-based predictable in the long term through a reform of the funding legisla- violence, to protect the reproductive rights of women, and to focus on tion. We want to establish a permanent reserve of EU mediators and the safety and participation of women and girls in the prevention of experts in conflict prevention, peace consolidation and mediation, conflicts, the transformation of conflicts and in stabilisation proces- which can be deployed at speed. We want more interdepartmental ses. We want to counteract gender images that have a negative effect analysis, early crisis detection and project planning, a closer agree- on peace, security and development. To that end, we want to work ment with international partners and an appropriately equipped with civil society and the academic community to devise mandatory fund for “crisis prevention, crisis resolution and peace-building”. We guidelines for a feminist foreign policy for the federal government. want to offer greater support to local civil society concepts and players in the area of peace-building. We want to further develop Reappraising colonial injustice and decolonising the Civil Peace Service and expand it as required, and to strengthen international relationships the Center for International Peace Operations as well as peace and conflict research. We want to increase the endowment funds for the Our international policy is aimed at self-critical and equal cooperation. German Foundation for Peace Research, and provide greater sup- We can neither undo nor fully make up for the injustice suffered by port for the newly established specialist department at the German people in the former colonies of the German Empire. It is therefore all Police University and other academic institutions, in particular in the more important for us to acknowledge past injustices such as the terms of human resources and more permanent positions. We also Herero and Nama genocide, to ask for forgiveness for these and other Chapter 6 Chapter want to inform the population about the successes and opportu- crimes such as those committed in the Maji Maji uprising, and to take 6 Chapter nities for civilian crisis prevention and conflict resolution through full responsibility for these in word and deed. However, the crimes of increased and more targeted publicity. the colonial era mean that we have a special responsibility for our international actions today. We want to dismantle, piece by piece, struc-

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tural injustices such as discriminatory clauses in trade agreements, the reality, we want to strengthen and develop the joint European insti- unjust distribution of wealth and the lack of representation in the UN tutions that reach beyond the EU, such as the Council of Europe and Security Council. Our nature and environmental protection must also the OSCE, thus enabling the involvement of all European states. This be post-colonial in nature. This means strengthening and respecting is the only way in which we can actually create a strong and effective the human and land rights of indigenous and local communities. The system of collective security throughout Europe. Our goal remains local civil society, people in the diaspora and descendants of the vic- to win over the Eastern neighbouring states of the European Union tims of colonial crimes are partners in this endeavour. Together with to this point of view on the basis of shared values and to support them, we want to strengthen the reappraisal processes and, along with local democratic civil societies there, which is especially necessary our European partners, ensure that there is a comprehensive reapprai- in light of the nationalist and retrograde policy of Russia which is sal of colonial crimes. undermining Europe‘s security and the self-determination of Russia‘s neighbouring countries. The OSCE as a forum for dialogue with a fair Strengthening foreign cultural and education policy balance of interests needs more financial and human resources as well as a more active involvement on the part of the federal govern- Against the background of increasing authoritarianism and world- ment and participating Parliamentarians. As a protagonist for arms wide attacks on artistic and academic freedom, we want to inten- limitation, disarmament and the joint fight against the climate crisis, sify the cooperation with UNESCO and the Council of Europe and it needs to be strengthened and provided with more support in its reinforce our foreign cultural, education and academic policy. This efforts to implement the Minsk Agreement. The ongoing attempts of ensures access to civil society, especially in times of crisis, streng- authoritarian states to dominate the OSCE agenda in line with their thens democratic exchanges and builds new partnerships. We will own interests can only be countered by working together with other provide additional support for civil society organisation Eine-Welt- liberal democracies in the OSCE towards a values-led policy based on Engagement and educational work around development policy. We international law. also want to strengthen the reappraisal of the crimes of National Socialism through international cultural and youth encounters and New impetus for disarmament through civil society exchanges. It is our goal for all young people to have the opportunity, as part of their school, training or further educa- Disarmament and arms control mean greater security for everyone tion, to experience some form of European or international exchange. around the globe. In light of the growing military risks in Europe, a We want to reappraise the responsibility for Germany‘s colonial past revival of conventional arms control is essential. The first steps should through initiatives such as joint History Book Commissions with for- be further de-escalation measures in conflict zones and the resump- mer colonised countries. Cultural intermediary organisations, such tion of the security dialogue and military contact between NATO and as the Goethe-Institut, and German schools abroad should be better Russia. Beyond Europe, too, we want to get all countries involved, resourced and made digitally fit. We also want to reinforce the pro- including and especially China. Our aspiration is still nothing less gramme for persecuted artists and academics as well as measures than a world free of nuclear weapons. Following the termination of against disinformation campaigns. the treaty on intermediate-range nuclear systems (INF Treaty) between the USA and Russia, a new treaty initiative is required. We reject Chapter 6 Chapter Strengthening the Council of Europe and the OSCE the stationing of new intermediate-range missiles on the continent of 6 Chapter Europe. We want to use the new transatlantic relationship following Peace in Europe means more than peace, security and stability in the the US presidential election and the revival of the New START Treaty EU. For the vision of a peaceful future for all Europeans to become a to enter into talks with the USA about Barack Obama‘s “Global Zero”.

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We want a Germany free from nuclear weapons and the accession ware. Germany and the EU must take on a global leadership role here. of Germany to the UN Nuclear Weapons Ban Treaty. A world without In order to prevent the militarisation of space, we want to introduce nuclear weapons can only be achieved via interim steps. As a first advanced, internationally binding rules. step, Germany should take part in the Conference of the Parties as an observer. Furthermore, we want to use the forthcoming legislative Creating security in cyberspace and the information space period to initiate the following processes: an international initiative for the reduction of the number of nuclear weapons, a NATO renuncia- Lethal autonomous weapons systems that are no longer effectively tion of any first strike and a broad public debate about the outdated controlled by people in the choice and engagement of targets repre- deterrence doctrines of the Cold War. We know that this requires – sent an incalculable threat. For the sake of peace and stability, we given the Russian conventional and nuclear armament programme want internationally binding regulations on autonomy in weapons – numerous discussions in the alliance, including with our European systems and the internationally binding outlawing and prohibition partners, and above all the strengthening of the security and reassu- of applications that violate ethical and international law principles. rance of our Polish and Baltic allies. This also applies to digital weapons such as attack and espionage software. Germany and the EU must take on a global leadership No German weapons in war zones or dictatorships role here. In order to prevent the militarisation of space, we want to introduce advanced, internationally binding rules. Creating secu- Exports of arms and military equipment to dictatorships, regimes that rity in cyberspace and the information space Digitalisation and new do not respect human rights and war zones must be banned. For the technologies offer many new opportunities, but also create risks for reduction of European arms exports, we want to see joint restrictive open, democratic societies and throw up difficult ethical, political arms export control by the EU with strict, enforceable regulations and and legal questions in certain areas. They change the opportunities potential sanctions. Cooperations with the security sector of other for the exertion of state and non-state influence on individual free- states must be tied to their adherence to criteria relating to demo- doms and social discourse, democratic voting processes and modern cracy, the rule of law and human rights. For Germany, we will present warfare. The state is obliged to provide effective protection for its an arms export control law, introduce the right to take collective legal population from such attacks. For early recognition, analysis and a action in the event of violations against the new law, and ensure an joint approach by public bodies, we need interdepartmental stra- effective end-use control. There should be no Hermes guarantees for tegies for fighting hybrid threats, clear legal guidelines and strong arms exports. We want to strictly regulate the deployment of security parliamentary control over the actions of the Federal Armed Forces firms in international conflicts and ban private military companies. in cyberspace. The Federal Armed Forces need a specific remit in the digital arena that is focused on protection and defence. At the same Outlawing lethal autonomous weapons systems internationally times, all state institutions must constantly strengthen their resilience. Operators of critical infrastructure require particular support Lethal autonomous weapons systems that are no longer effectively here. We will advocate for new international agreements to streng- controlled by people in the choice and engagement of targets repre- then arms control of digital goods and international law. The validity sent an incalculable threat. For the sake of peace and stability, we of the UN Charter must be extended and international humanitarian Chapter 6 Chapter want internationally binding regulations on autonomy in weapons law must also be applied in cyberspace. For that to happen, it is also 6 Chapter systems and the internationally binding outlawing and prohibition of necessary to expand European cooperation, with Germany playing a applications that violate ethical and international law principles. This corresponding role. also applies to digital weapons such as attack and espionage soft-

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Observing the international responsibility to protect Modern Federal Armed Forces

It is important to intervene early in disputes and prevent them esca- The mission and role of the Federal Armed Forces must be oriented lating into armed conflicts. We are guided by the concept of the towards the real and strategically important challenges of security “Responsibility to Prepare, Protect and Rebuild” of the United Nati- and peacekeeping, and form part of a general government approach. ons, which obliges the community of nations to protect people from Germany should be able to rely on its allies and equally, those allies the worst human rights violations and crimes against humanity, as should be able to rely on Germany. This includes ensuring that the well as genocide. Equally, the nations are obliged to expand their Federal Armed Forces are reliably and predictably equipped with the instruments for prevention, crisis response and the subsequent care human and material resources necessary for their mission and role or rebuilding of war-torn societies. We support international missi- and that they are optimally organised. It is no longer acceptable that ons within the framework of the United Nations that contribute to solders are deployed with adequate protective equipment. Alongside stability, the protection of the civilian population and the implemen- ensuring adequate and optimal equipment at all times, we want to tation of peace processes. We will endeavour to fill gaps in resources ensure that soldiers receive comprehensive care and support after and capabilities in this area and significantly increase the civilian missions and expand the range of services for those injured in action. and military contribution to UN operations. We want to considera- The Federal Armed Forces should reflect the variety and diversity of bly increase the proportion of women among deployed personnel, our society in its personnel structure. Hateful ideologies and right- police and soldiers, especially in leadership positions, by means of wing extremist behaviour are completely incompatible with the mis- targeted recruitment. The use of military force as a last resort when sion of the Federal Armed Forces and the duties of its soldiers. We will all other possibilities such as sanctions or embargoes have been therefore monitor and investigate this rigorously and break up any exhausted, may be necessary in some situations to prevent genocide such structures. In addition to comprehensive investigation, effective and create the opportunity for the political solution to a conflict. prevention is crucial through a practised and well-developed inter- Any deployment needs a clear and attainable mission, balanced civi- nal leadership, responsible personnel recruitment and up-to-date lian and military capabilities and independent (interim) evaluations. mandatory political education. We reject the recruitment of minors Armed operations by the Federal Armed Forces overseas need to be and the armed deployment of the Federal Armed Forces within our embedded in a system of mutual collective security – in other words, borders and we want to put an end to voluntary military service in not in unconstitutional coalitions of the willing – and in an over- homeland security and put political education in schools on an equal all political concept, based on the Basic Law and international law. footing by strengthening civilian crisis prevention and conflict hand- Interventions in the sovereignty of a state or in places where there ling. Armed drones have been and continue to be frequently used, is no state sovereignty require a mandate from the United Nations. including by our allies, for extra-judicial killings and other acts that If the power of veto in the Security Council is abused to cover up violate international law. Any such deployment is unthinkable for us the most serious crimes against humanity, the world community will and is incompatible with German constitutional and military law. At face a dilemma because non-action can violate human rights and the same time, we recognise that these systems can provide better international law as much as action. protection for soldiers in certain situations. It is therefore necessary to clarify which scenarios involving the deployment of the Fede- Chapter 6 Chapter ral Armed Forces should include the use of armed drones before 6 Chapter any decision can be made regarding their procurement. Technical challenges such as the possible threat of hacking must also play an important role when weighing up the decisions.

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Strategic reorientation of NATO overseas missions should be better supported and controlled by the European Parliament. We reject the reallocation of money from the NATO is suffering from diverging security policy interests within the EU budget previously earmarked exclusively for civilian purposes for alliance right up to interstate conflicts. In this deep crisis it lacks a military purposes. clear strategic perspective. Nevertheless, from a European perspective, it remains, alongside the EU, an indispensable player that can guarantee the joint security of Europe and, as an alliance of states, it discourages any renationalisation of security policy. We will advocate, within the framework of the ongoing strategy process, for a reorientation of NATO and, based on this, a debate about a fair distribution of the burden and a balanced participation of member states so that we can work together to develop strategic interests based on Euro- pean values such as multilateralism, democracy and the rule of law, and represent those interests in a more cohesive and convincing way. The NATO target of 2 percent is not aimed at capacities and empowerment and thus does not provide an adequate response. We therefore reject this target. We advocate setting a new target that is not abstract, national and static, but instead is based on our shared tasks, and we will look for dialogue on this with our NATO partners. It also includes stronger military cooperation and coordination within the EU and with European NATO partners such as the UK and Norway.

Shaping Europe‘s security together

Together with its international partners, the European Union must fulfil its responsibility for its own security and defence. The Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) requires a joint EU foreign policy. We want to establish an EU security union under strong parliamentary control and a joint restrictive arms export policy with strict rules and the possibility of enforceable sanctions. Instead of funnelling more and more money into parallel national military structures, we want to expand the reinforced cooperation of armed forces in the EU, combine military capabilities, achieve more efficient procurement and work together to close generally recognised capability shortfalls Chapter 6 Chapter by consolidating the European arms sector. This will require suitable 6 Chapter equipment, the expansion of EU units and a strengthening and consolidation of the joint EU command structure and European initiatives such as the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO). Joint EU

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the state will have after the pandemic. No one knows all the conditi- Governing eye to eye ons of the future. However, now you are familiar with all our proposals and goals, our views and our stance. Our promise to you: we have been preparing for many years and we will do everything we can to achieve with the future as much as we possibly can. Because governing is not an end in itself. Our aspiration is no less than a renewal of the country. The major transformation tasks, the cohesion of our society require Dear Voters, more than ever the will to cooperate, to unite, to reach a compromise that is more than the sum of its parts. The major tasks of our times will In this manifesto, we have described to you the direction we want to not succeed if a government thinks it can do it all alone. It can only embark on with a new set of policies and the projects that we believe succeed if many people feel responsible, if as many as possible see will lead us to a better future. If we want to enable the best in times themselves as part of the team. We want to take on responsibility, but of upheaval and epochal tasks, not only does the content of policies we know that we will need your support. We ask you to please contri- have to change, but also the way we make policies, how a government bute and get involved, and we invite you to move forward with us. With leads the country. our combined efforts, we can achieve a great deal together. In democratic societies, leadership is based on the strength of convic- For this, we want to re-establish the relationship of government, tion. Yes, it is possible to resolutely push through policies with politi- parliament and citizens: strong parliaments and members of parlia- cal majorities and see, after four years, whether you agreed with the ment, new forms of participation, for instance via citizen councils, early political decisions or not. However, this simple principle of winning involvement of citizens in planning processes, transparent involve- and losing every four years has proved to be too weak on its own to ment of the democratic civil society and scientific facts. Governing manage the current social challenges. Democratic societies can do does not mean knowing it all and opposition does mean being against more by networking, learning from each other and joining forces. We everything on principle. Often the people directly affected by a law can only deal with the major challenges of our times together. The are the first to recognise its unintended effects. We want to listen and end of the present political era can at the same time be the beginning involve people to enable our politics to be better. of a new political self-image and togetherness. This also includes a new style of cooperation within government. As politicians, we are committed to the public good and are man- As a party we have successfully adopted and put team spirit and coope- dated to serve you, the people of this country. We need lively, contro- ration to the test in recent years. We now want to bring in this idea versial debate and the willingness to scrutinise situations and con- - starting with the idea that full equality for women is self-evident. We cepts and to learn, otherwise things will not progress. Those who want to lead a coalition that tries ´to make the best out of differences, make allegations or consciously provoke misunderstandings stifle instead of settling for the lowest common denominator. That recogni- debate. But we want to facilitate it. ses that a coalition partner brings value to the table and may also be We know that you too are having just as serious thoughts about right. A coalition that includes those who are not sitting on the coa- our future as a society as we are. And that is why we say: yes, our lition committee. Not everyone feels that they are represented by us; plans are ambitious, not least the task for humanity of protecting the we know that. That is why it is all the more important to also approach climate, because any less would not meet the challenges. And no, we those who do not or will not vote for us. cannot promise that every single project will be carried out exactly as The coronavirus crisis has shown how much our state does - and we have outlined. We cannot promise that no one will be burdened by where it is lacking. Inequality has grown, but a strong social safety net

Epilogue climate protection. We cannot predict how much room for manoeuvre has up to now prevented the coronavirus pandemic from developing Epilogue

Manifesto for the 2021 Parliamentary Elections Manifesto for the 2021 Parliamentary Elections 244 BÜNDNIS 90 / DIE GRÜNEN BÜNDNIS 90 / DIE GRÜNEN 245 Ready because you are.

into a far-reaching social crisis. Doctors, nurses and hospitals have accomplished enormous things. But the pandemic has also shown where our state reaches its limits. Fax machines, busy helplines, public authorities running around and plans that seemingly take an eternity to get implemented due to a lack of staff warn us that something has to change. We also have proposals for you in our manifesto that address this issue. We want to modernise our administration, make it more creative, more digital and more innovative and equip it better. We want to encourage experimentation and develop a positive error culture. Our state should become more colourful and more feminist. We want to create scope for urgently required future investments, maximise the potential of renewables and harness the state‘s buying power for innovation and sustainability. Because socio-ecological transformation and digitalisation, the modernisation of the state and the civil service can only succeed as a collaborative project, we want to get a convention off the ground to extensively readjust the interplay of the federal government, states and local authorities, based on the lessons learnt from the pandemic. We are planning on setting up new authorities and administrative structures because we want a strong, efficient state that is suited to its tasks. This also includes checking what is no longer needed, what can be shut down, what needs to be improved. We want to tackle this after the election, together with you and the other democratic parties, without blinkers and dogmatism. Going back to the old arguments about more or less state, more or less regulation, more or less federalism is not suitable for the task. It is crucial to be bolder for the major tasks of the coming decade. And to do more. Now it‘s up to you. In elections, a society decides who it wants to be. Elections are a moment of freedom. Use it – for freedom. Epilogue

Manifesto for the 2021 Parliamentary Elections 246 BÜNDNIS 90 / DIE GRÜNEN Election campaign 2021 Inform yourself and join us: gruene.de